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Context And Its Relevance For Adam Smith'S Theological And Teleological Views, The Foundation Of His System Of Thought

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  • Alvey, James E.

Abstract

The paper will discuss some aspects of the context in which Smith wrote and its relevance for understanding Smith's fundamental assumptions. By fundamental assumptions, I mean Smith's views on teleology, final causes and divine design. These have been described as the "secret" foundations to Smith's writings. Teleology, final causes and divine design were initially seen as central to understanding Smith's writings. Over time, this view fell out of fashion. In the period after World War II, with the rise of positivism, commentators tended to overlook or downplay the significance of these fundamental assumptions. In the last decade, or so, teleology has started to be restored to its former position as an essential element in understanding Smith. The change in orientation in intellectual history towards historical context may have been instrumental in the revival of the theological and teleological interpretation of Smith.

Suggested Citation

  • Alvey, James E., 2004. "Context And Its Relevance For Adam Smith'S Theological And Teleological Views, The Foundation Of His System Of Thought," Discussion Papers 23715, Massey University, Department of Applied and International Economics.
    • Handle: RePEc:ags:masddp:23715
    DOI: 10.22004/ag.econ.23715
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    References listed on IDEAS

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    1. Jacob Viner, 1927. "Adam Smith and Laissez Faire," Journal of Political Economy, University of Chicago Press, vol. 35(2), pages 198-198.
    2. Jerry Evensky, 1989. "The Evolution of Adam Smith's Views on Political Economy," History of Political Economy, Duke University Press, vol. 21(1), pages 123-145, Spring.
    3. Lisa Hill, 2001. "The hidden theology of Adam Smith," The European Journal of the History of Economic Thought, Taylor & Francis Journals, vol. 8(1), pages 1-29.
    4. Coase, R H, 1976. "Adam Smith's Views of Man," Journal of Law and Economics, University of Chicago Press, vol. 19(3), pages 529-546, October.
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    Cited by:

    1. Xayavong, Vilaphonh & Gounder, Rukmani & Obben, James, 2005. "Theoretical Analysis Of Foreign Aid, Policies And State Institutions," Discussion Papers 23704, Massey University, Department of Applied and International Economics.
    2. Gounder, Rukmani, 2005. "Dimensions Of Conflict And The Role Of Foreign Aid In Fiji," Discussion Papers 23699, Massey University, Department of Applied and International Economics.
    3. Alvey, James E., 2005. "Overcoming Positivism In Economics: Amartya Sen'S Project Of Infusing Ethics Into Economics," Discussion Papers 23702, Massey University, Department of Applied and International Economics.

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