The Theory of Moral Sentiments · Chapter
Section III: Of Self-Command explained
This section examines the virtue of self-command, focusing on how the impartial spectator's approval varies with different passions.
What happens
This section examines the virtue of self-command, focusing on how the impartial spectator's approval varies with different passions. It discusses how the point of propriety differs for passions that unite versus those that divide society, and explores the standards by which we judge our own merit and conduct, emphasizing the ideal of perfect propriety versus common attainment.
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
Self-command is presented as a key virtue, with propriety determined by the impartial spectator's sympathy with different passions.
- The Impartial Spectator
The impartial spectator is used to judge the propriety of passions and to form the ideal standard of perfection for self-evaluation.
- Desire for Praiseworthiness vs. Mere Praise
The wise and virtuous man directs attention to the ideal of perfection (praiseworthiness) rather than mere comparison with others.
Characters to notice
- The Impartial Spectator
Central to the analysis of self-command and the point of propriety for different passions.
Key passages
“the unremitting steadiness of those gentler exertions of self-command, that the amiable virtue of chastity, that the respectable virtues of industry and frugality, derive all that sober lustre which attends them.”
The steady practice of self-command gives a quiet dignity to virtues like chastity, industry, and frugality.
Highlights how self-command enhances even humble virtues.
“the point of propriety, the degree of any passion which the impartial spectator approves of, is differently situated in different passions.”
The level of passion that the impartial spectator finds proper varies depending on the type of passion.
Introduces the key idea that moral approval depends on the nature of the passion.
“The wise and virtuous man directs his principal attention to the first standard; the idea of exact propriety and perfection.”
A wise and virtuous person focuses mainly on the ideal of perfect propriety, not on how they compare to others.
Emphasizes the importance of striving for an ideal rather than mere social comparison.
