In the following excerpt, Bittermann examines Smith's methodology in relation to the doctrine of natural law, arguing that, in formulating his ethical and economic theories, Smith rejected the rationalistic methods of the natural-law school of thought in favor of empirical procedures.

In the following essay, Macfie places Smith and several other economists, including Francis Hutcheson, David Hume, and James and John Stuart Mill, within the historical context of the Scottish tradition in economic thought. Macfie emphasizes that their approach was sociological rather than analytical and that their methods were strongly influenced by the philosophy of Stoicism and the doctrine of natural law. Macfie's essay was originally delivered as a lecture at the Annual General Meeting of the S...

In the following essay, Campbell argues that Smith's moral and political philosophies are ultimately based on the principle of utility.

In the following excerpt from a chapter on The Theory of Moral Sentiments in Hirst's full-length study of Smith's career, Hirst focuses on Smith's notion of virtue, discussing the primary components of his system of ethics, sympathy, and the conscience.

In the following excerpt, Lux faults Smith's thesis (in The Wealth of Nations) that human self-interest is solely responsible for the economic well-being of the public, arguing that this theory fails to take into account the possibility of dishonesty and cheating on the part of economic actors.

In the following excerpt, Raphael judges the strengths and weaknesses of Smith's theory of moral judgment.

In the following excerpt, Muller analyzes Smith's views on the moral and political roles of the intellectual as social scientist in commercial society.