The theory of moral sentiments challenges individuals to reflect on their lives and the incentives that drive them. It highlights the tendency to focus on monetary incentives due to their pervasive nature. Upton Sinclair's quote emphasizes the difficulty of understanding beyond one's salary-driven perspective. The book illuminates the various emotional forces that influence people, prompting a broader consideration of incentives.
Economists and politicians have turned him into a mascot for free-market ideology. Some on the left say the right has badly misread him. Prepare for a very Smithy tug of war. (Part 2 of “In Search of the Real Adam Smith.”)