Adam Smith's rational sentimentalism and his contribution to moral philosophy

Abstract

Starting from Adam Smith'sTheory of Moral Sentiments, the objective of this research is to understand his moral philosophy and his contribution to this field of philosophy. The philosopher seems to link the sentimentalist bases of morality to a rational aspect. This link occurs through the concepts of gratitude, resentment, and empathy on the emotional side, and the concept of an impartial spectator on the rational side. After this, we will analyze how the thinker incorporates the concept of virtues within this moral theory and, finally, the impact that such incorporation has on political philosophy and the philosophy of law. In conclusion, we will shed light on the distinction between public and private morality and how this proposal, together with the rest of his moral philosophy, can help the contemporary debate on the link between morality and law, and even on the justification of punishment.