Smith explains why Mandeville’s ideas about vice made him one of the most notorious writers of his time.

Smith continues his discussion of Butler’s theory of moral psychology, and summarizes his ideas about conscience and rational self-interest.

Smith discusses Butler’s influential theory of psychology and his ideas about self-interest and benevolence.

Smith discusses various objections to the claim that all actions are necessarily self-interested.

Smith explains Burke’s argument against majority rule and a constitution based on the consent of the governed.

Smith discusses the Hobbesian theory of self-interest and why classical liberals were so intent on refuting it.

Smith marks three years of his essays with some thoughts about the importance of libertarian theory and history.

Smith explains Hume’s theory of the social evolution of our ideas about justice.

Smith begins his discussion of David Hume’s moral and social philosophy.

Smith explores two concepts of political philosophy and their respective ideas about justice and a good society.

Smith begins his exploration of self-interest and social order by explaining Shaftesbury’s theory of social psychology.

Smith explores Emile Durkheim’s major objections to Herbert Spencer’s theory of a free society based on voluntary contracts.

Smith explores some features of social holism, as explained and defended by Emile Durkheim.

Smith explores the historical and theoretical roots of methodological individualism and subjectivism.

Smith discusses some controversial features of praxeology, as defended by Ludwig von Mises. 

Smith explains methodological individualism and its implications for the existence of institutions and other social phenomena.

Smith discusses the value of sociology and some misconceptions of methodological individualism.

Smith explains Herbert Spencer’s views of the scientific status of sociology, the nature of social laws, and the practical value of social science.