About the Book: The Theory Of Moral Sentiments
This book sets forth a theory of how we come to be moral, of how this morality
functions on both individual and societal levels, and of what forces are likely
to corrupt our sense of morality. The main point that Smith makes is that our
sense of morality is derived from our capacity to sympathize directly and
indirectly with other people. We wish both to be praised and to be worthy of
this praise, as well as to avoid both blame and blame-worthiness. On account of
these interests, we must learn to temper our reactions to other people,