Colloquium Series
A page within Menard Family Initiative
2025-2026 MFI Colloquium Series
The 2025-2026 Colloquium Series consists of two moderated student discussions on selected readings. The first event will be held on Friday, November 14, 2025 and look at Adam Smith’s An Inquiry into the Nature and Causes of the Wealth of Nations. This reading offers a deep exploration of how economies grow and societies prosper. First published in 1776, Smith’s work introduced foundational ideas such as the division of labor, the invisible hand, and the power of free markets—concepts that continue to shape modern economic thought. Through discussion and analysis, students will examine the relevance of Smith’s ideas in today’s global economy and consider how his principles of productivity, competition, and limited government still influence policy and practice.
Thanks to the generous support of the Liberty Fund, each student was gifted a copy of An Inquiry into the Nature and Causes of the Wealth of Nations for this discussion.
Event details: Friday, November 14th Location: Wittich Hall, 1102/1104
