Michael Munger on How Adam Smith Solved the Trolley Problem
EconTalk
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The Ethics of Loss: Smith's Moral Dilemma
This chapter explores the philosophical tensions between personal loss and collective harm through the lens of Adam Smith's moral philosophy. It examines how individuals often prioritize their own minor interests over the wellbeing of distant others, illustrated by the famous trolley problem. The discussion highlights the complexities of ethical decision-making, combining self-interest, altruism, and the role of an 'impartial spectator' in guiding moral choices.
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