# Moral Purpose of Economics in The Acquisitive Society

> Theme guide for The Acquisitive Society by R. H. Tawney.

The book insists that economic activity must be subordinated to ethical and social ends, rejecting the notion that the pursuit of self-interest automatically produces public good, and calling for a revaluation of values.

## Where it surfaces

- [Introductory](https://www.betterreads.dev/discover/the_acquisitive_society_se/chapters/introductory): Argues that economic life must be subordinated to moral values and that cooperation depends on moral principles.
- [The Condition of Efficiency](https://www.betterreads.dev/discover/the_acquisitive_society_se/chapters/the-condition-of-efficiency): Emphasizes that economic efficiency depends on human motives and professional spirit, not merely on economic incentives.
- [Porro Unum Necessarium](https://www.betterreads.dev/discover/the_acquisitive_society_se/chapters/porro-unum-necessarium): Argues that economic activity must be subordinated to social purpose, and that industry should be seen as a servant, not master, of society.

## Links

- HTML: https://www.betterreads.dev/discover/the_acquisitive_society_se/themes/moral_purpose_of_economics
- Themes index: https://www.betterreads.dev/discover/the_acquisitive_society_se/themes