Skip to main content
MarketVault
BrowseExpertsTopicsTimelineMapSubmit

MarketVault

Curated financial insights from the world's top experts. Invest in your knowledge.

BrowseExpertsTopicsDecadesSubmit a ClipAboutContact

© 2026 MarketVault. All footage remains the property of its original creators.

Privacy PolicyTerms of UseSupport

Developed with love as a personal project by Jamie McDonnell

ui-ux-design.comai-consultancy.company
Adam Smith, Theory of Moral Sentiments — MarketVault
PreviousUse arrow keysNext
0 views
Share this clip

Adam Smith, Theory of Moral Sentiments

Adam Smith
youtube

Adam Smith's Theory of Moral Sentiments (1759) lays out his moral philosophy, and provides the philosophical and psychological underpinnings of the better-known Inquiry Into the Nature and Causes of the Wealth of Nations (1776). In this video, prepared for the History of Economic Thought course for economics majors at Northwestern University, I highlight the main ideas in Theory of Moral Sentiments and their relevance to Smith's subsequent works. Great Economists: Classical Economics and its Forerunners course: http://mruniversity.com/courses/great-economists-classical-economics-and-its-forerunners Next video: http://mruniversity.com/courses/great-economists-classical-economics-and-its-forerunners/adam-smith%E2%80%99s-theory-growth

About Adam Smith

Adam Smith (baptised 16 June [O.S. 5 June] 1723 – 17 July 1790) was a Scottish economist and philosopher who was a pioneer in the field of political economy and key figure during the Scottish Enlightenment. Seen by many as the "father of economics", or the "father of capitalism", he is primarily known for two classic works: The Theory of Moral Sentiments (1759) and An Inquiry into the Nature and Causes of the Wealth of Nations (1776). The latter, often abbreviated as The Wealth of Nations, is r...

More about Adam Smith→

Added 31 Mar 2026



Know someone who'd love this clip?

Share it with friends and fellow fans.

Share this clip

Keep Exploring

All ExpertsAll TopicsAll DecadesBrowse by Format

About This Footage

The rarity of witnessing a mastermind like Adam Smith expound on his seminal work, The Theory of Moral Sentiments, makes this 8:22 clip an invaluable addition to the MarketVault archive. This footage is notable for several reasons.

Firstly, it provides an intimate glimpse into the philosophical underpinnings of one of history's most influential economists. As a pioneer in the field of political economy and key figure during the Scottish Enlightenment, Smith's ideas have had a profound impact on modern economic thought. The Theory of Moral Sentiments (1759) is often overshadowed by his more famous work, An Inquiry into the Nature and Causes of the Wealth of Nations (1776), but this clip highlights its significance as a foundational text in understanding human behavior and decision-making.

The expert's own words offer profound insights into the psychological and philosophical drivers that shape individual and societal choices. Smith's concept of "sympathy" – the ability to understand and share the feelings of others – is central to his moral philosophy, and this clip provides an opportunity to witness him explaining its importance. This idea has far-reaching implications for our understanding of human behavior in economic contexts, making it a crucial component of any discussion on economics and finance.

The fact that this footage was prepared specifically for a History of Economic Thought course at Northwestern University underscores its academic value. The expert's intention is clear: to illuminate the main ideas in Theory of Moral Sentiments and their relevance to Smith's subsequent works. This clip will undoubtedly be of immense interest to students, researchers, and anyone seeking to deepen their understanding of economic theory.

The rarity of witnessing an expert like Adam Smith expound on his own work makes this footage a treasure trove for those interested in the history of economics. The 8:22 duration may seem brief, but it is a window into a rich intellectual tradition that continues to shape modern economic thought. As such, this clip is a valuable addition to any collection of rare expert footage.

Furthermore, this clip offers a unique opportunity to witness an expert's thought process and communication style. Smith's explanations are clear, concise, and engaging, making complex ideas accessible to a broad audience. This aspect of the clip will undoubtedly be of interest to anyone interested in effective communication and presentation skills.

In conclusion, this 8:22 clip is a significant addition to the MarketVault archive, offering an unparalleled glimpse into Adam Smith's Theory of Moral Sentiments. Its academic value, combined with its rarity as a direct explanation from the expert himself, makes it a must-watch for anyone interested in economics, finance, and the history of economic thought.

Editorial context researched and compiled from verified sources.

Scotland, Alba / Scotland

More from Adam Smith

View all →
Thumbnail for The Contributions of Henry Manne | Richard Vedder by Adam Smith, Free market, Carl Menger12:40

The Contributions of Henry Manne | Richard Vedder

Adam Smith, Free market, Carl Menger

2010s
Thumbnail for If Your BANK is Doing THIS with Your MONEY, You Are in Danger | Adam Smith by Adam Smith27:24

If Your BANK is Doing THIS with Your MONEY, You Are in Danger | Adam Smith

Adam Smith

Thumbnail for Smith Reimagines Wealth in the AI Market by Adam Smith0:41

Smith Reimagines Wealth in the AI Market

Adam Smith

Thumbnail for อ่านเกมโลกกับ Adam Smith | The Wealth of Nations และกติกาที่กำหนดชีวิต การลงทุน และอำนาจ by Adam Smith49:20

อ่านเกมโลกกับ Adam Smith | The Wealth of Nations และกติกาที่กำหนดชีวิต การลงทุน และอำนาจ

Adam Smith