Butler and Adam Smith on Conscience, Self-deceit and General Rules

There are two principal issues[aut]Smith, Adam discussedSelf-deceit in thisGeneral rules chapter. Firstly, it examines the relationship between Joseph Butler (1692–1752) and[aut]Smith, Adam Adam Smith (1723–1790). Exploring the association between these two personalities is something that both Butler and Smith scholarships have relatively disregarded. In contrast to this general understanding, the chapter aims to illustrate their intimate relationship. Secondly, drawing on the first point, it also attempts to determine some clues to comprehend Butler’s attitude towards commercial societyCommercial society, which encompasses the theme of this book. Regarding this point, it is discussed that Butler defends some forms of self-loveSelf-love in several ways, indicating his positive attitude towards commercial societyCommercial society.