Character Quote by Jerry Z. Muller
““This emphasis on the difference between intentions and ultimate results constituted an implicit critique of the Christian and civic republican traditions, and continues to make moralists queasy. Both traditions had stressed the importance of good and benevolent intentions. By unlinking consequences from intentions, Smith called into question the necessity and possibility of elevating the economic behavior of individuals through preaching and propaganda. Yet just as he transmuted the Christian virtue of charity into the secular virtue of benevolence, on another level Smith preserved the classic republican concern for the common good. Those who could be motivated to devote themselves to promoting the public interest were in need of "superior reason and understanding, by which we are capable of discerning the remote consequences of all our actions, and of foreseeing the advantage or detriment which is likely to result from them.””
About This Quote
Source Book: The Capitalist Manifesto, 2015
Smith separates intentions from outcomes, challenging traditional moral frameworks and questioning the role of virtue in economics.
In simple terms: Economic actions are judged by results, not just good intentions.
Key Takeaway
Focus on outcomes, not just motives.
Themes
economics
ethics
politics
Mood
critical
analytical
Type
philosophical
inspirational
When to use this quote
- policy design
- business strategy
- public administration
Key Concepts
Moral philosophy
public good
Questions to Reflect On
- Can outcomes alone guide morality?
- How to balance intent and result?
A Different Perspective
Overemphasis on outcomes may ignore intent.
