We all know The Wealth of Nations. It’s the “economics bible,” the birth of capitalism, the thing everyone quotes without reading.

But here’s the secret: You can’t understand Adam Smith unless you also read his other book — The Theory of Moral Sentiments.

Smith wasn’t writing about markets first. He was writing about people.

He thought deeply about happiness, vanity, jealousy, and the painful gap between our hopes and real life. He understood that humans want recognition as much as wealth — and that moral life is impossible without imagining how others feel.

And when it comes to “happiness”? Smith’s answer is shockingly simple:

A moderate income. Good health. A life where your conscience stays quiet.

That’s it. No millionaire fantasies, no grind culture. Just living without shame, envy, or fear.