The Theory of Moral Sentiments · Chapter
Part VI: Of the Character of Virtue explained
Smith introduces the examination of individual character under two aspects: its effect on the individual's own happiness and its effect on the happiness of others, setting the stage for a detailed analysis of virtue.
What happens
Smith introduces the examination of individual character under two aspects: its effect on the individual's own happiness and its effect on the happiness of others, setting the stage for a detailed analysis of virtue.
Free preview opens on this chapter — companions, themes, and character notes appear beside the text.
Narrative arc
Story tension across the book — this chapter sits in Falling action.
- Setup
- Escalation
- Breaking point
- Aftermath
- Closing
This passage marks the dramatic climax because it crystallizes the core psychological crisis: the tension betw…
Full beat labels and climax notes unlock in the reader.
Follow the arc while readingThemes in this chapter
- Virtue as Propriety and Self-Command
The chapter frames virtue in terms of its impact on personal happiness and social harmony, aligning with the concept of propriety.
- Self-Love and the Social Order
The dual focus on self-regarding and other-regarding aspects of character reflects the balance between self-love and social order.
Key passages
“When we consider the character of any individual, we naturally view it under two different aspects; first, as it may affect his own happiness; and secondly, as it may affect that of other people.”
When examining someone's character, we look at how it influences their own well-being and how it influences the well-being of others.
This introduces the dual perspective for analyzing virtue.
