The Theory of Moral Sentiments by Adam Smith

The Theory of Moral Sentiments by Adam Smith is considered to be one of the founding texts of modern economics and remains one of the most famous works of moral philosophy. First published in 1759, the book is divided into three sections that collectively consider the nature of human action and the emotions that accompany it. These essays by Smith present his unique analysis of morality and its links with commerce, as well as an examination of the forces that influence the decision-making process of an individual.

The first section of The Theory of Moral Sentiments, entitled “Of the Influence of Custom and Fashion upon the Sentiments of Moral Approbation and Disapprobation,” focuses on the role of social habit in creating moral codes. Smith argues that the moral landscape of any society is constructed through the long-term practice of certain beliefs, values, and processes of evaluation. He further proposes that the various elements of morality that we find in our own societies are the result of a long process of cultural evolution. People’s moral judgement is, thus, a reflection of the particular customs and practices that are predominant at any given moment in their society’s history.

The second section, “Of the Influence of the Pleasure or Pain which Results Immediately from any Particular Action upon the Sentiments of Moral Approbation and Disapprobation,” looks at how different emotions, such as fear or vanity, can influence an individual’s moral perspectives. According to Smith, our moral sentiments have a great deal to do with the pleasure or displeasure we take in particular actions. While there is often a natural aversion to committing anything that is judged as intrinsically wrong, Smith acknowledges that the ways in which different people react to a given situation will be strongly determined by their experiences, perceptions, and emotions.

The last section, “Of Justice and Beneficence,” explains the relationship between justice and the feelings of both pleasure and displeasure when someone receives rewards for their actions. Smith argues that justice is an essential part of our morality because it facilitates the maintenance of order and stability within a given social environment. He further observes how justice tends to promote a greater sense of general well-being, which is ultimately a desirable outcome for any society.

The Theory of Moral Sentiments remains one of the most important works in the history of moral philosophy. It provides an in-depth look at the idea that our moral codes are fundamentally based on the collective and individual experiences of our societies. Smith’s examination of the forces that influence emotion also provides a unique insight into the nature of human decision-making. Finally, his conception of justice offers a powerful representation of the importance of a stable and equitable social framework for any successful civilization.