Moral Sentiment Theory

Author: Adam Smith (English)
Publisher:
Publish Date: 2004-07-01
Features: This book elaborates on moral evaluation theory and virtue theory based on the theory of sympathy, starting from the moral perspective and the well-being of individuals and society. It includes common standards for moral norms and moral evaluation, as well as an emphasis on the overall interests of society. In Smith's arguments, the key question is: What exactly does sympathy, the foundation of morality, refer to? Smith believes that caring about others, putting oneself in their shoes, and regarding others' happiness as one's own concern is what constitutes sympathy, and that sympathy is human nature. Essentially, Smith is saying that both sympathy and self-interest are part of human nature. Therefore, Smith argues that only when all members of society possess sympathy and use it as a guiding principle for behavior can society achieve harmony, stability, and progress. It follows that the question raised by The Theory of Moral Sentiments is: a market mechanism based on self-interest must be coordinated by moral sentiments based on others' interests. The Wealth of Nations speaks of the economic man; The Theory of Moral Sentiments speaks of the moral man.