The Theory of Moral Sentiments

Adam Smith's theory on morals provides the philosophical bedrock for his future works on economics, including his most famous book The Wealth of Nations.
Published in 1759, this work sees Smith follow the lead of his tutor and mentor Francis Hutcheson. He divides his ethical examinations into four broad categories: ethics and virtue; private rights and natural liberties; rights of the family; and state and individual rights.

Although lesser known compared to Adam Smith's later works, The Theory of Moral Sentiments is an influential work of philosophy in its own right, with the greatest effect being upon its author.