The Smithian Economy: Family, Community and Country
- Date
- 2026-06-16
- Location
- London, England, United Kingdom
- Host
- Adam Smith Institute
About this event
How should a healthy economy serve the people living inside it? The Smithian Economy: Family, Community and Country is an in-person evening in London for people who want to think seriously about the relationship between economic life and the institutions that give it meaning: families, neighbourhoods, and the nation itself. If you are interested in how markets shape everyday life, and how social bonds shape economic outcomes in return, this event offers a grounded space to explore those questions with others. About the Event This event is built around a big but practical theme: what does it mean to think about the economy in a way that starts not only with growth, efficiency, or consumption, but with family stability, local community, and national belonging? The title points to a Smithian frame, suggesting a conversation that takes economic life seriously while also asking what moral and civic foundations make prosperity sustainable. Rather than treating economics as an abstract technical subject, the evening creates room for a broader discussion about the values and relationships that sit underneath it. That makes this especially relevant for people who care about public life, social cohesion, and the lived experience of economic change in towns, cities, and households. The format is designed for in-person exchange. Expect a setting that supports both structured discussion and informal conversation, so attendees can hear ideas, test assumptions, and connect with others who are thinking about similar questions from different angles. What to Expect You can expect an evening that combines ideas, discussion, and community. The focus is not just on presenting a concept, but on creating a useful conversation around it: how economic priorities affect family life, how communities are strengthened or weakened by policy and markets, and what role national identity or shared purpose can play in economic thinking. A typical flow for an event like this includes a central talk or framing conversation, followed by time for questions, reflection, and informal networking. The value of the evening comes from being in the room with people who are prepared to engage thoughtfully rather than passively listen. Likely elements of the evening include: A clear framing of the core theme behind The Smithian Economy Discussion of the links between economic systems and social institutions Space to consider how family, community, and country relate to one another rather than being treated as separate topics Audience engagement through questions or open discussion Time before or after the main programme to meet other attendees Because the event is tagged across community, networking, meetup, and social, you should expect a tone that is intellectually serious but socially open. This is not only about absorbing ideas; it is also about finding people who are asking similar questions about the direction of society and public life. Why Attend If you have felt that many conversations about the economy are too narrow, this event offers a different lens. It invites you to look at economic questions through the realities of care, belonging, mutual obligation, and place. That shift can be valuable whether you work in policy, business, civil society, education, or are simply trying to make better sense of the world around you. You may come away with a sharper language for discussing issues that are often felt before they are clearly articulated: why economic insecurity affects family formation, why strong communities matter beyond sentiment, or why national frameworks still shape the possibilities of social and economic life. Reasons people are likely to find this worthwhile include: You want a more human account of economics than standard headlines provide You are interested in the connection between markets and moral or civic life You value discussion that crosses personal, social, and political boundaries You want to meet others in London who care about these themes in a serious but accessible way This is also a good event for people who appreciate the energy of a meetup format but want substance, not small talk for its own sake. The networking value here comes from shared interest and common inquiry, which usually leads to better conversations and stronger connections. Practical Details Location: In person in London, United Kingdom. As this is a physical gathering, attending in person will be the best way to take part fully in both the discussion and the social side of the evening. Date and time: Tuesday, June 16 at 6:00 PM GMT+1. An early evening start makes this well suited to people coming after work, study, or other daytime commitments. A few useful things to keep in mind: Plan to arrive a little early so you can settle in and make the most of any pre-event conversation Bring your curiosity and a willingness to engage with others in good faith Expect a mix of listening, discussing, and meeting people rather than a purely formal lecture format If this topic connects to your work or interests, be ready to continue the conversation beyond the event itself If you are looking for an evening in London that combines public thinking, social connection, and a serious discussion of what economic life is for, The Smithian Economy: Family, Community and Country is a strong reason to be in the room.
Who should attend
This is for you if you want economic discussion to feel more connected to real life, real relationships, and the social fabric people actually depend on. - You are interested in **economics, politics, society, or public life** and want to explore how family, community, and national life fit into that picture. - You work in or around **policy, education, research, media, business, or the voluntary sector** and want a broader framework for thinking about economic questions. - You care about **social cohesion, local belonging, and the conditions that help families and communities thrive**, and you want to discuss those concerns seriously with others. - You enjoy events where there is both **substance and sociability**: thoughtful discussion, good questions, and the chance to meet people who share your interests. - You are looking for a **London-based in-person gathering** that goes beyond surface-level networking and gives you something meaningful to think about afterward. - You do not need to be a specialist. If you are curious, reflective, and ready to engage, you are likely to get a lot from the evening.