The merchants may affect how he feels about the economy, because that's what merchants specialize in. His scientist friends may make him more knowledgeable and curious, as science is all about discovering new information. However, it is the job of a philosopher to always be questioning everything about their society and about morality. Their perspectives will likely he very unique and well-thought out. They'll probably be very open about their opinions, too, as their career is based around sharing opinions. This will influence Smith's opinions
The USSR’s help in defeating Japan. The US wanted Stalin to attack from above during the invasion of Japan, aka Operation August Storm. This happened with the Soviet invasion of Manchuria.
