Adam Smith and the Idea of Virtuous Capitalists

Adam Smith is known as the founder of economics as well as the father of capitalism. But such characterizations usually miss how essential he thought morality and virtue were to flourishing societies. In fact, Smith's work on economics is more powerful when read alongside his work on morality: Capitalists benefit from virtue, and virtue flourishes under capitalism. This lecture explores Smith's moral framework for assessing the benefits and the dangers of commercial society.

Recommended Readings

"How Adam Smith Can Change Your Life" by Russ Roberts

"The Infidel and the Professor" by Dennis Rasmussen

"Adam Smith and the Character of Virtue" by Ryan Hanley