The Invisible Hand That Kilt the Congo

Abstract

By using King Leopold II’s brutal rule of the Congo as a historical case study, the paper demonstrates how Adam Smith’s “invisible hand” free-trade ideology was manipulated to justify imperial violence, forced labor, and mass death. Ultimately, the essay reveals that true economic progress requires ethical accountability, not blind faith in markets driven by self interest and profit with no moral restraints.

For additional context, listen to the author's reflection on the piece below.