Part I, Section I, Chapter I: Of Sympathy
Adam Smith
In an era dominated by the belief in self-interest as the driving force of human behavior, Adam Smith presents a compelling counterargument. He suggests that sympathy—our natural inclination to care for others' wellbeing—plays a crucial role in human interactions. This wasn't just a personal musing; it was a fundamental element in his "Theory of Moral Sentiments," where he explored the emotional foundation of moral judgment. As capitalism's father, Smith’s insight reminds us that economic exchange is not the sole governor of human affairs.