<!-- generated: provider=openrouter model=arcee-ai/trinity-large-preview:free date=2026-02-19 source=book-4-introduction -->

# System of Agriculture

## Definition

One of two distinct systems of political economy for enriching the people, based on agricultural development and land cultivation. This system represents an older approach to economic advancement compared to the modern system of commerce, focusing on the cultivation of land as the primary source of wealth.

## Source Chapter

Book IV, Chapter 0

## Context

Smith identifies the agricultural system as the alternative to the commercial system, noting that different stages of opulence in different ages and nations have given rise to these two approaches. He indicates his intention to explain both systems, beginning with commerce.

## Economic Domain

Production

---
