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EconTalk

Dan Klein on The Theory of Moral Sentiments, Episode 1--An Overview

Apr 6, 2009
01:23:27
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Delve into Adam Smith's exploration of moral motivations in The Theory of Moral Sentiments, contrasting with The Wealth of Nations. Explore Smith's criteria for assessing morality and justice, his views on natural vs. positive laws, and the impact of government intervention. Reflect on gratitude, beneficence, and economic motivations, examining the ethical implications of profit-seeking behaviors and the interconnectedness of culture and economics. Dive into the human aspect of capitalism and Smith's concept of justice, ownership, and distributive justice.
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Podcast summary created with Snipd AI

Quick takeaways

  • The Theory of Moral Sentiments explores diverse human motivations beyond self-interest, including fame, glory, and social influences.
  • Adam Smith advocates for a virtuous society through aligning laws with moral sentiments and virtues, spanning from commerce to policy-making.

Deep dives

The Richness of Adam Smith's Theory of Moral Sentiments

Adam Smith's Theory of Moral Sentiments, written in 1759 and revised in 1790, provides a comprehensive understanding of human motivations. It delves into a broader spectrum of motivations beyond self-interest, encompassing fame, glory, guilt, and the influence of social interactions on behavior. Smith aims to refine moral considerations and move society towards wisdom, viewing moral sentiments as part of an enlightenment movement.

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