Adam Smith: Lectures on Jurisprudence

Meek, R.L.; Raphael, D.D.; Stein, P.G. (Editors)

ISBN 10: 0865970114 / ISBN 13: 9780865970113

Published by Liberty Classics, Indianapolis and New York, 1982

About this Item

Some light soils and scuffs on covers, with discolored fading along top edge and spine. A collection of lectures by Adam Smith discussing Jurisprudence. 610 pages.

Seller Inventory # 034743

Bibliographic Details

• Title: Adam Smith: Lectures on Jurisprudence
• Publisher: Liberty Classics, Indianapolis and New York
• Publication Date: 1982
• Language: English
• ISBN 10: 0865970114
• ISBN 13: 9780865970113
• Binding: Stiff Card Covers
• Condition: Very Good
• Dust Jacket Condition: No Jacket
• Book Type: Book
• Seller catalogs:
  • General

About this title

Synopsis

Smith’s Lectures on Jurisprudence, originally delivered at the University of Glasgow in 1762–1763, presents his “theory of the rules by which civil government ought to be directed.” The chief purpose of government, according to Smith, is to preserve justice; and “the object of justice is security from injury.” The state must protect the individual’s right to his person, property, reputation, and social relations.

Building on his Theory of Moral Sentiments, Smith argues that the state must act as an impartial spectator, judging when an individual has been injured. The state must then design and apply civil and criminal laws to prevent further injuries and punish transgressors. Laws are also the means by which the state promotes public prosperity. Thus, regulations concerning trade, commerce, and production must be crafted so as to encourage rather than interfere with our productive capacities.

About the Author

Adam Smith (1723-1790) was a Scottish political economist and moral philosopher.