Philosopher's rare book on display in home town

Adam Smith was a leading figure in the Scottish Enlightenment

A rare book annotated by Scottish philosopher and economist Adam Smith is to go on display in his home town in Fife.

The book by philosopher John Locke, Two Treatises of Civil Government, complete with Smith's handwritten notes will be shown at Kirkcaldy Galleries.

Smith studied at the University of Glasgow from 1737 to 1740 and the text is thought to have been read by him as part of his moral philosophy course.

He was a leading figure in the Scottish Enlightenment but actively destroyed his papers and unpublished works - especially those with annotations.

It is the first time Smith's copy of the book has been exhibited since experts confirmed that the pen markings were very likely to be his.

Curators believe they offer an insight into Smith's developing intellect.

He later released An Inquiry into the Nature and Causes of the Wealth of Nations, which became an essential text in classical economics.

Adam Smith's annotations have been found in the text

Smith's copy of Two Treatises of Civil Government was previously exhibited in 2016 - the year it was restored with support from the Friends of Kirkcaldy Galleries.

This was before experts from the University of Glasgow and the National Library of Scotland concluded research that suggested the annotations were by Smith.

Prof Craig Smith said the markings can help researchers learn more about Smith's interests.

He added: "Smith was a careful reader and these annotations show that he was a close reader of Locke's work, giving us insight in how he criticised and was influenced by him."

Also on display is a snuff box and pewter inkwell believed to be used by Smith, a glass paste portrait of Smith and a portrait of his mother, Margaret Douglas.

A first edition of The Wealth of Nations, which launched his career, can also be viewed.