First published in 1976, this book provides an interdiciplinary study fo the thoughts of Adam Smith, showing it particular how the link between economic basis and social superstructure was central to his work. The work is split into six sections, dividing Smith's views along the following lines: 'methology', 'conduct and character', 'consumer behaviour', 'the upper classes', 'the lower classes', and finally 'the State'.
Part 1:IntroductionPart 2: Methodology 1. Epistemology 2. Scientific Method 3. Aesthetics 4. Science and Social Science Part 3: Conduct and Character 5. Conduct 6. Benevolence and the Sacred 7. Character Part 4: Consumer Behaviour 8. Consumption and Social Status 9. Tranquility, Ambition and Progress Part 5: The Upper Classes 10. Aristocracy, Clergy and Feudalism 11. Historical Evolution 12. Clergy and Commerce Part 6: The Lower Classes 13. The Division of Labour 14. Value, Distribution and Solidarity 15. The Sense of Exploitation 16. Employment and Standards of Living Part 7: The State 17. Balance of Interest and Balance of Power 18. The Case Against the State 19. The Scope for Intervention