Of the principle of self-approbation and self-disapprobation

Vernon L. Smith ()
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Vernon L. Smith: Chapman University

Chapter Chapter 24 in Adam Smith’s Theory of Society, 2025, pp 207-212 from Springer

Abstract: Abstract The principle by which we naturally judge the propriety, or impropriety, of our own conduct is one and the same by which we judge the conduct of another and vice versa. We must always examine our own conduct from the perspective of a fairImpartial spectatorfair and [meaning fair-play] and [coolImpartial spectatorcool and] impartial spectator, applying the same standards to any other whose conduct we judge. This rule, when applied generally, enables people without design or intentionIntention to be part of a process that can create a stable and cohesive community and society. It is the stuff by which great nations of opportunity are created without planning to do so. Let those who would achieve national good by planning it, begin by planning to better treat their neighbors. Gandhi’s insightful modern version of this maxim is to be the change you would want to see in the world.

Date: 2025
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Persistent link: https://EconPapers.repec.org/RePEc:spr:sprchp:978-3-031-68494-4_24

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DOI: 10.1007/978-3-031-68494-4_24

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