Who is known for proposing the concept of the "invisible hand" in economics?

The concept of the "invisible hand" is famously attributed to Adam Smith, a foundational figure in classical economics. He introduced this idea in his work "The Wealth of Nations," published in 1776. The "invisible hand" metaphor describes how individual self-interest in a free market can lead to positive societal outcomes, as if guided by an unseen force. This concept highlights how personal motivations can contribute to economic efficiency and societal wealth, as individuals pursuing their own interests can inadvertently benefit others through their actions in the marketplace.

In contrast, figures like Karl Marx focused on critiques of capitalism and the implications of class struggle. John Maynard Keynes is well-known for his theories regarding government intervention in the economy, particularly during economic downturns, while Milton Friedman was a prominent advocate for free-market capitalism and monetarist policies. Each of these economists contributed significantly to economic thought but did not propose the "invisible hand" concept, which is distinctively associated with Adam Smith.