"The Theory of Moral Sentiments" Reading Guide

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About Our Reading Guides

The AdamSmithWorks reading guides use three types of questions and highlighting to help guide readers.

Why Teach "The Theory of Moral Sentiments?"

"Smith’s system can help adolescents build a moral narrative for their developing social lives."

TMS Reading Guide: Part I

Of the Propriety of Action

TMS Reading Guide: Part II

Of Merit and Demerit; or, of the Objects of Reward and Punishment

TMS Reading Guide: Part III

Of the Foundation of our Judgments concerning our own Sentiments and Conduct, and of the Sense of Duty

TMS Reading Guide: Part IV

Of the Effect of Utility upon the Sentiment of Approbation

TMS Reading Guide: Part V

Of the Influence of Custom and Fashion upon the Sentiments of Moral Approbation and Disapprobation

TMS Reading Guide: Part VI

Of the Character of Virtue

TMS Reading Guide: Part VII

Of Systems of Moral Philosophy