Theory of Moral Sentiments

Theory of Moral Sentiments

Adam Smith

Central Compilation and Translation Press

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Summary

The Theory of Moral Sentiments is divided into seven parts and has been revised six times. In the book, Smith uses the basic principle of sympathy to explain the origin of all moral sentiments such as justice, kindness, self-denial, etc., and explains the nature, principles and characteristics of moral evaluation and various virtues...

Highlights

In response to Adam Smith's Theory of Moral Sentiments, they are all distinctive, profound, unique, beautiful, wise or creative. These contents are particularly suitable for readers, maintaining professionalism and pertinence. 1. "No matter how selfish people may think someone is, there are always some obvious natures in this person's talents, which make him care about the fate of others and regard the happiness of others as his own business, although he gets nothing except the pleasure of seeing others happy." - It deeply reveals the concern and sympathy for others in human nature. 2. "What is the purpose of our hard work and running back and forth in this world? What is the purpose of all this greed and desire, all this pursuit of wealth, power and fame? In the final analysis, it is to get the love and recognition of others." - The language is beautiful and it provides a profound insight into the ultimate goal of life pursuit. 3. "When a person considers the feelings of others, he will inevitably restrain his passion and reduce his passion to a level that others can agree with." - It wisely expounds the relationship between self-restraint and social harmony. 4. "In the process of pursuing wealth, if we can adhere to the principles of justice and fairness, then our behavior is not only legal, but also respectable." —— Emphasizes the importance of morality in economic activities. 5. "Sympathy is the cornerstone of our moral emotions. It enables us to understand the suffering of others and inspires our desire to alleviate this suffering." —— A unique perspective that highlights the fundamental role of sympathy in moral construction. 6. "A person's character should not be judged solely by his behavior, but by his motives and intentions." —— Provides a new perspective for evaluating character and emphasizes the importance of intrinsic motivation. 7. "On the huge stage of society, everyone plays a different role, and our moral emotions are the scripts that guide our behavior." —— Creatively compares society to a stage and moral emotions to a script. 8. "True happiness does not lie in how much wealth you have, but in how many cherished emotions and relationships you have." —— Profoundly expounds on the true meaning of happiness. 9. "The cultivation of moral sentiments requires time and patience. It cannot be established overnight." - Reminds people of the long-term and arduous nature of moral construction. 10. "Our moral judgments are often influenced by our own experiences and emotions, so we need to be vigilant at all times to avoid falling into prejudice and error." - Wisely points out the limitations and fallibility of moral judgments. 11. "Among human moral emotions, sympathy and compassion for the weak are the most noble and pure." - Highly praises the moral value of sympathizing with the weak. 12. "A person's moral level is not only reflected in his attitude towards others, but also in his attitude towards himself." - Emphasizes the importance of self-moral restraint. 13. "The power of moral sentiments lies in their ability to inspire us to pursue higher and better goals." - Passionately describes the positive role of moral sentiments. 14. "On the moral scale, every tiny good deed will increase our weight, and every tiny evil deed will reduce our weight." - Vividly compares the accumulation and influence of moral behavior. 15. "True morality is not external norms and constraints, but internal self-awareness and pursuit." —— Profoundly points out the internalization process of morality. 16. "When we look at the world with sympathy, we will find that the world is full of people who need our care and help." —— A unique perspective that encourages people to look at the world with sympathy. 17. "The cultivation of moral sentiments requires us to start with small things, from every word and deed in daily life." —— Emphasizes the practicality and daily nature of moral construction. 18. "In the world of morality, there is no absolute perfection, but we can continue to work hard and pursue it." —— Wisely expounds on the sustainability and progress of moral pursuit. 19. "The power of moral sentiments lies in their ability to enable us to transcend ourselves and pay attention to the broader society and human destiny." —— Enhances the realm and influence of moral sentiments. 20. "True morality is not empty preaching, but real action and practice." —— Emphasizes the practicality and action of morality, calling on people to put moral concepts into practice.

About the Author

Adam Smith: The Mastermind Behind The Theory of Moral Sentiments Adam Smith, an 18th-century economist, philosopher and moral ethicist, is known for his groundbreaking works The Theory of Moral Sentiments and An Inquiry into the Nature and Causes of the Wealth of Nations.< His ideas have had a profound impact on modern economics, moral philosophy and social theory, and he is known as the "Father of Modern Economics".

Personal Basic Information: Adam Smith was born on June 5, 1723 in Kirkcaldy, Fife, Scotland.< He died on July 17, 1790 at the age of 67.

Education and Career Background: Smith was educated at the University of Glasgow and later went to Oxford University for further studies.< He served as a professor of moral philosophy at the University of Glasgow and achieved a high reputation in the academic community.

In addition to his educational career, Smith also traveled on the European continent and communicated with famous thinkers of the time such as Voltaire and Rousseau.

Writing career: Smith's writing career began in 1759 with the publication of The Theory of Moral Sentiments.< This book explores the roots and principles of human moral behavior and proposes "sympathy" as the basis of moral judgment.

The Wealth of Nations was published in 1776, expounding the principles of market economy and the importance of free competition.< These two works established Smith's position in the fields of economics and moral philosophy.

Style and theme of works: Smith's writing style is easy to understand, full of wisdom and insight.< He focuses on the motivations behind human behavior and emphasizes that individuals can bring prosperity to society while pursuing their own interests.

In terms of moral ethics, Smith emphasizes the importance of sympathy and altruism, believing that this is the cornerstone of human society.

Personal life: We know very little about Smith's personal life.< He never married and lived with his mother and aunt.

He is said to be introverted but gets along well with friends.

Social influence: Adam Smith's ideas have had a profound impact on society.< His views laid the theoretical foundation for modern capitalism and free market economy.

Many authoritative media, experts and institutions have highly praised Smith's contributions.

For example, The Economist magazine called him "the greatest economist", while Nobel Prize winner in economics Paul Samuelson said: "Every branch of modern economics can be traced back to the work of Adam Smith.

" Quotations and evaluations: Adam Smith's The Theory of Moral Sentiments and The Wealth of Nations are widely cited and studied.< Many economists, philosophers and historians have conducted in-depth analysis of his works.

For example, The New York Times once commented that The Theory of Moral Sentiments is "a masterpiece that reveals the nature of human moral behavior.

" Latest developments: Although Adam Smith has been dead for more than 200 years, his ideas are still relevant.< In the current context of globalization and market economy, Smith's theories are still widely discussed and applied.

Many scholars and policymakers are re-examining Smith's views in order to provide inspiration for solving today's social problems.

Summary: Adam Smith is a great thinker whose works have had a profound impact on economics, moral philosophy and social theory.< By studying his life, works and social impact, we can better understand the contributions of this great thinker and his significance in modern society.