Ricardo’s influence on the science of economics derives from barely a dozen years’ work. Ricardo was the most notable of the circle around Bentham, supporters of his utilitarian ideas. Wealthy from his stock-dealing, he was persuaded to publish his most important work by James Mill, a particularly close friend (John Stuart Mill, his precocious son, went for walks with their frequent visitor, and commented on Ricardo’s lack of abrasive pushiness, drawing a contrast with his father). Malthus, a friend and close associate of Ricardo, provided the stimulation of his oppositional views. De Quincey was a disciple, but it seems they never met.