The Theory of Moral Sentiments

PART I: of the propriety of action, consisting of three sections SECTION I: Of the sense of propriety SECTION II: Of the degrees of the different passions which are consistent with propriety SECTION III: Of the effects of prosperity and adversity upon the judgment of mankind with regard to the propriety of action; and why it is more easy to obtain their approbation in the one state than in the other PART II: of merit and demerit; or, of the objects of reward and punishment; consisting of three sections SECTION I: Of the sense of merit and demerit SECTION II: Of justice and beneficence SECTION III: Of the influence of fortune upon the sentiments of mankind, with regard to the merit or demerit of actions PART III: of the foundation of our judgments concerning our own sentiments and conduct, and of the sense of duty PART IV: of the effect of utility upon the sentiment of approbation consisting of one section PART V: of the influence of custom and fashion upon the sentiments of moral approbation and disapprobation consisting of one section PART VI: of the character of virtue consisting of three sections SECTION I: Of the character of the individual, so far as it affects his own happiness; or of prudence SECTION II: Of the character of the individual, so far as it can affect the happiness of other people SECTION III: Of self-command PART VII: of systems of moral philosophy: consisting of four sections SECTION I: Of the questions which ought to be examined in a theory of moral sentiments SECTION II: Of the different accounts which have been given of the nature of virtue SECTION III: Of the different systems which have been formed concerning the principle of approbation SECTION IV: Of the manner in which different authors have treated of the practical rules of morality Endnotes