Despite the doom and gloom of America’s naysayers, passion for American values runs far past our shores. Over the past few weeks, social media feeds have been filled with stories of the world visiting the United States for the World Cup — most notably, the exploits of Scottish fans visiting Boston. A match made in heaven: no beers were spared, boats were rented to avoid Boston’s seemingly archaic drinking laws by Scottish standards, and most heartwarming of all may have been the Scots singing the “Flower of Scotland” following the national anthem at a Red Sox game. The Scottish-American relationship is deeper than a love of beer or the passionate singing of our own national anthems. In fact, it finds its roots in philosophy.The Tartan Army’s appreciation for American values and hospitality is rooted in the invaluable impact that was left on this country by a former Scot’s teachings. Scottish philosopher and economist Adam Smith’s The Wealth of Nations shares its 250th birthday with our Declaration of Independence.
This is no mere coincidence. Smith’s theories are what shaped America’s free market, helping foster a society built on opportunity, individual initiative, and the freedom to pursue one’s own success. Those principles have long attracted admiration from visitors around the world and remain a cornerstone of the American character that so warmly welcomed Scotland’s supporters.
