The idea of the “Invisible Hand” refers, in human society, to “the unintended social benefits of an individual’s self-interested actions.” Through Smith’s underpinnings, people will be viewed and treated as “honorable beings” from the members of their community. Smith’s theory inhabits an optimistic worldview, in which individual action will result in the well-being of everyone. The “invisible hand” is open to interpretation. This semester on EM, we are examining Smith’s theory through the broadest possible lens, reflected and refracted through our own very unique and personal epistemologies and lived experiences.
