Foundations of Modern Social Theory

Lecture Details

Foundations of Modern Social Thought (SOCY 151)

Adam Smiths ideas about self-interest should be understood as a precursor in some ways to John Stuart Mills thinking on utilitarianism. Professor Szelenyi discusses, but does not resolve, the complexities of Adam Smiths moral and ethical positions staked out in The Theory of Moral Sentiments—including a focus on sympathy—and the most widespread economic interpretation of Smith and The Wealth of Nations that he is the economist of self-interest. One way to reconcile these so-called "two Smiths" is that, as social beings, it is in our self-interest to express benevolence and sympathy toward others. Mill, the student of Bentham since a very young age, humanizes the theory of utilitarianism. Perhaps he should be best remembered for his staunch views on liberty liberty must never be compromised for the sake of expediency.

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This course was recorded in Fall 2009.