Is Adam Smith a hero or villain?

Adam Smith is often viewed as a hero for his foundational contributions to economics, particularly through his seminal work "The Wealth of Nations," which laid the groundwork for free-market capitalism. He championed the idea of the "invisible hand," suggesting that individual self-interest can lead to societal benefits. However, some critics argue that his ideas have been misinterpreted or misapplied, leading to economic inequality and exploitation, which could frame him as a villain in those contexts. Ultimately, perceptions of Smith vary based on one's ideological perspective on capitalism and its effects on society.