Abstract

Richard Boyd

Adam Smith and Nationalism

Scholars have long been preoccupied with the role of sympathy, benevolence, and sociability in Smith’s writings. The Smith of TMS is frequently portrayed as a theorist of community, consensus, and sociability in contrast to the ostensible economism of the WN. Although these sociable elements of human nature undoubtedly play a major role in Smith’s moral philosophy, less attention has been focused on how these very same elements of sympathy, identification, and fellow-feeling may generate conflict and dissension. The flip-side of benign sympathy for friends, allies, and co-nationals, Smith wisely recognizes, is antipathy toward strangers and enemies. Building on these themes, this paper seeks to bring to light Smith’s neglected thoughts on nationalism.