The Theory of Moral Sentiments: Or, An Essay Towards An Analysis Of The Principles By Which Men Naturally Judge Concerning The Conduct And Character, First Of Their Neighbours, And Afterwards Of Themselves; To Which Is Added A Dissertation On The Origin O (250)
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- Synopsis
- The foundation for a general system of morals, this 1749 work is a landmark in the history of moral and political thought. Readers familiar with Adam Smith from The Wealth of Nations will find this earlier book a revelation. Although the author is often misrepresented as a calculating rationalist who advises the pursuit of self-interest in the marketplace, regardless of the human cost, he was also interested in the human capacity for benevolence — as The Theory of Moral Sentiments amply demonstrates. The greatest prudence, Smith suggests, may lie in following economic self-interest in order to secure the basic necessities. This is only the first step, however, toward the much higher goal of achieving a morally virtuous life. Smith elaborates upon a theory of the imagination inspired by the philosophy of David Hume. His reasoning takes Hume's logic a step further by proposing a more sophisticated notion of sympathy, leading to a series of highly original theories involving conscience, moral judgment, and virtue. Smith's legacy consists of his reconstruction of the Enlightenment idea of a moral, or social, science that embraces both political economy and the theory of law and government. His articulate expression of his philosophy continues to inspire and challenge modern readers.
- Copyright:
- 2009
Book Details
- Book Quality:
- Publisher Quality
- ISBN-13:
- 9781101460016
- Related ISBNs:
- 9780143105923
- Publisher:
- PENGUIN group
- Date of Addition:
- 05/04/20
- Copyrighted By:
- Amartya Sen, 2
- Adult content:
- No
- Language:
- English
- Has Image Descriptions:
- No
- Categories:
- Nonfiction, Business and Finance, Law, Legal Issues and Ethics, Philosophy
- Grade Levels:
- Twelfth grade
- Reading Age:
- 18 and up
- Submitted By:
- Bookshare Staff
- Usage Restrictions:
- This is a copyrighted book.
- Edited by:
- Ryan Patrick Hanley
- Introduction by:
- Amartya Sen