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Yale University

Utilitarianism and Liberty - John Stuart Mill's Philosophy - Lecture 7

Yale University via YouTube

Overview

Explore the philosophical foundations of modern social thought in this 42-minute lecture from Yale University's "Foundations of Modern Social Thought" course. Delve into the complex moral and ethical positions of Adam Smith, examining the relationship between self-interest and sympathy in his works "The Theory of Moral Sentiments" and "The Wealth of Nations." Discover how John Stuart Mill humanizes utilitarianism and learn about his unwavering stance on liberty. Investigate key concepts such as the labor theory of value, the invisible hand, and the historical contexts of both Smith and Mill. Gain insights into the major themes of "Utilitarianism" and understand how these influential thinkers shaped modern social and economic theory.

Syllabus

- Chapter 1. Smith in a Historical Context
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- Chapter 2. "The Theory of Moral Sentiments": Major Themes
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- Chapter 3. "The Wealth of Nations": Major Themes; Self-Interest and The Common Good
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- Chapter 4. The Labor Theory of Value; The Invisible Hand
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- Chapter 5. Mill in a Historical Context
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- Chapter 6. "Utilitarianism": Major Themes
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