The Theory of Moral Sentiments

"The Theory of Moral Sentiments," authored by Adam Smith, explores how human emotions influence our sense of morality. Smith argues that empathy—our ability to understand and share the feelings of others—is central to our moral judgments. He suggests that we naturally develop a sense of fairness and justice based on our interactions and feelings towards others’ welfare. Through the idea of the "impartial spectator," Smith emphasizes the importance of considering how our actions affect those around us, advocating for moral behavior rooted in compassion and shared human experience.