Adam Smith: Lectures on Jurisprudence

By: Adam Smith and R. L. Meek and D. D. Raphael and P. G. Stein

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Synopsis: Smith's Lectures on Jurisprudence, originally delivered at the University of Glasgow in 1762-1763, present 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.

Book Quality:: Excellent
ISBN-13:: 9780865970113
Publisher:: Liberty Fund
Date of Addition:: 09/30/16
Copyrighted By:: Oxford University Press.
Adult content:: No
Language:: English
Has Image Descriptions:: No
Categories:: Nonfiction, Law, Legal Issues and Ethics, Politics and Government
Submitted By:: 170
Proofread By:: 170
Usage Restrictions:: This is a copyrighted book.