Self-Interest and Social Order

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

Smith discusses Mandeville’s defense of legal prostitution and other vices.

Smith discusses what Mandeville meant in saying that private vices produce public benefits, and how Hutcheson criticized that theory.