The Presence of Physiology in Adam Smith's Theory: Organic Metaphor in the Roots of Economic Thought
DOI:
https://doi.org/10.5007/1808-1711.2024.e95159Keywords:
Adam Smith, Political Economy, Physiology, Animal Economy, Organic MetaphorAbstract
This paper analyzes Adam Smith's ideas about physiology and how these ideas influenced and are present in his economic-political theory through the use of the organic metaphor. To do so, firstly, I will attempt to show that such a resource was not exceptional. However, great precursors and exponents of economic-political thought, such as Hobbes, Petty, or Quesnay, frequently used such metaphor. Secondly, I will show that Adam Smith's use of the organic metaphor reveals relevant aspects of his thought concerning both animal economy and political economy, as well as important metaphysical commitments. Finally, I conclude that the role of such a trope was not merely rhetorical and heuristic but an important means of reflection and inquiry.
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