The Theory of Moral Sentiments · Chapter
V: Of the Influence and Authority of the General Rules of Morality, and That They Are Justly Regarded as the Laws of the Deity explained
This chapter explores how general rules of morality, derived from our natural sentiments, come to be regarded as authoritative laws, often attributed to the Deity.
What happens
This chapter explores how general rules of morality, derived from our natural sentiments, come to be regarded as authoritative laws, often attributed to the Deity. Smith argues that these rules, which guide our sense of duty, are essential for directing human conduct, especially for the majority who may lack refined moral sentiments. He discusses how nature and man both aim to correct the distribution of rewards and punishments, though man's efforts are limited. The chapter also examines how a regard for these rules, instilled by education and religion, forms the basis of a dependable character and distinguishes a man of principle from a worthless one.
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
- General Rules of Morality as Laws of the Deity
The chapter argues that general moral rules are regarded as divine laws, providing an additional motive for virtuous conduct and reinforcing the sense of duty.
- Virtue as Propriety and Self-Command
Explores how adherence to general rules of propriety, even in the absence of natural sentiment, enables individuals to act with decency and avoid blame.
- Justice as the Pillar of Society vs. Beneficence as Ornament
Highlights the distinction between justice (essential) and beneficence (ornamental) in the context of moral rules and their enforcement by human laws.
Characters to notice
- Mr. John Smith
Referenced as a generic example of a man who acts from a sense of duty rather than natural sentiment, illustrating the principle of general rules.
Key passages
“The regard of those general rules of conduct, is what is properly called a sense of duty, a principle of the greatest consequence in human life, and the only principle by which the bulk of mankind are capable of directing their actions.”
Smith defines the sense of duty as the respect for general moral rules, which is crucial for guiding the actions of most people.
This introduces the central concept of the chapter: the sense of duty as the foundation of moral behavior for the majority.
“Without this sacred regard to general rules, there is no man whose conduct can be much depended upon. It is this which constitutes the most essential difference between a man of principle and honour and a worthless fellow.”
A steadfast adherence to general moral rules is what distinguishes a reliable, principled person from an unreliable one.
Emphasizes the importance of general rules in ensuring consistent and dependable conduct.
