Classical Economics is a school of thought that emerged in the late 18th and early 19th centuries, primarily associated with economists like Adam Smith and David Ricardo. It emphasizes the idea that free markets, driven by individual self-interest, lead to economic prosperity. Classical economists believe that supply and demand naturally regulate prices and that government intervention should be minimal. A key concept in classical economics is the idea of the invisible hand, which suggests that individuals pursuing their own interests inadvertently contribute to the overall good of society. This framework laid the groundwork for modern economic theories and continues to influence economic policies today.