The Real Adam Smith (2016)
by Johan Norberg
In class we watched Part 2 of The Real Adam Smith: Markets and Morality. The following questions on Part 2 are a regular assignment worth 20 points.
Part 1 is also link on D2L and has accompanying questions you many answer for BONUS POINTS.
Your answers should be detailed, thoughtful, and demonstrative of a real effort. These questions are open-ended, so push yourself: think critically, make connections, and use the primary text if necessary. The themes of the Modern Era and the Enlightenment should really be taking shape by now, so show me that you are developing a working knowledge of the questions, debates, concepts, and theories of this period in political theory.
1. How does Adam Smith “subvert” the contemporary distinctions between the right and left?
2. How would you characterize the tone, priorities, and methods of the Scottish Enlightenment?
3. What is the function of approbation in Smith’s ideas on morality?
4. Explain the importance of “social evolution” and the “man of system.”
5. How does Smith’s completely new description/understanding of a country’s wealth change the approach to trade? What does this recasting of wealth say about his view of humanity?
6. What is the potential of the “perfection” of human nature?
