Rhetoric and logic in Smith's Description of the Division of Labor

Jean-Louis Peaucelle

The European Journal of the History of Economic Thought, 2012, vol. 19, issue 3, 385-408

Abstract: This article analyses the first chapter of the Wealth of Nations, where the division of labour is defined and its effects described. It first shows the rhetoric and logical effects that are used to win the reader's goodwill. Then it reviews nineteenth century debates on the validity of the theory. Finally, it cites three real cases, where the division of labour does not increase the productive power of labour. In conclusion, it suggests that the theory on division of labour appears to require some adjustment, while acknowledging that some of the facts underlying arguments in its support are naturally true.

Date: 2012
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DOI: 10.1080/09672567.2010.499473

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