Mandeville

Mandeville, a Dutch-born philosopher from the 18th century, is best known for his work "The Fable of the Bees." He argued that many societal benefits, like economic growth and innovation, stem from individual self-interest and private vices. Mandeville suggested that actions considered immoral or selfish can inadvertently lead to positive economic and social outcomes, as these behaviors stimulate trade, creativity, and progress. His ideas challenge traditional views that virtue alone drives societal good, highlighting that vice and greed can sometimes produce beneficial effects in a functioning economy.