The Theory of Moral Sentiments · Chapter
Section II: Of Justice and Beneficence explained
This section examines the distinction between justice and beneficence, arguing that justice is the only virtue that can be enforced by external sanctions, while beneficence is left to the free will of individuals.
What happens
This section examines the distinction between justice and beneficence, arguing that justice is the only virtue that can be enforced by external sanctions, while beneficence is left to the free will of individuals. It explores the role of the impartial spectator in determining the propriety of actions and the necessity of justice for the stability of society.
Free preview opens on this chapter — companions, themes, and character notes appear beside the text.
Narrative arc
Story tension across the book.
- 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
- Justice as the Pillar of Society vs. Beneficence as Ornament
Smith argues that justice is essential for the existence of society, while beneficence is a desirable but not enforceable virtue.
- The Impartial Spectator
The impartial spectator is used to judge the propriety of actions, particularly in distinguishing between justice and beneficence.
Characters to notice
- Cicero
Referenced in the context of moral philosophy and the distinction between justice and beneficence.
- Dr. Hutcheson
Mentioned in relation to the moral sense and the foundation of justice.
- Dr. Mandeville
Cited for his views on the role of self-interest in moral behavior.
Key passages
“Justice is the only virtue that can be enforced by law, while beneficence is left to the free will of individuals.”
Smith asserts that justice is the sole moral obligation that society can compel through legal sanctions, whereas acts of beneficence are voluntary and cannot be coerced.
This distinction underscores the foundational role of justice in maintaining social order.
“The impartial spectator approves of the punishment of injustice, but not of the punishment of mere lack of beneficence.”
According to Smith, the impartial spectator supports the enforcement of justice through punishment, but does not endorse penalizing individuals for failing to perform beneficent acts.
This highlights the moral asymmetry between justice and beneficence in Smith's system.
