Rynek wolny od egoizmu
A market free of selfishness

Solidarity in the thought of Adam Smith

Author(s): Filip Lubiński
Subject(s): Politics / Political Sciences, Philosophy
Published by: Wydawnictwa Uniwersytetu Warszawskiego
Keywords: free market; justice; property; interventionism; political economy
Summary/Abstract: Philosopher rightly recognized as the precursor of modern economics, Adam Smith, is often classified as a thinker ascribing a positive value to human egoism. According to the mainstream economic doctrine, individuals act in their interest due to the “invisible hand of the market” contributing to widespread prosperity. Current research usually finishes its analysis on this mechanism, rarely undertaking a comprehensive review of Smith's achievements. The works of the Scottish philosopher on ethical, legal, and economic issues read together enable us to understand the importance he attached to solidarity. Holistic analysis of his most significant work – "An Inquiry into the Nature and Causes of the Wealth of Nations", at the same time, reading "Theory of Moral Sentiments and Lectures on Jurisprudence", allows us to reconstruct the social system emerging from Smith's philosophical achievements.

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