Abstract
The paper critically discusses some recent contributions to the literature that argue that Smith incorporated the needs of the poor within his account of justice. Three specific claims are examined and rejected: that Smith blurred the traditional distinction between perfect and imperfect rights; that he endorsed the doctrine of the right of necessity; and that he maintained that all people have a natural right to subsistence. © 2012 The History of Economics Society.
Original language | English |
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Pages (from-to) | 559-575 |
Number of pages | 16 |
Journal | Journal of the History of Economic Thought |
Volume | 34 |
Issue number | 4 |
Early online date | 14 Nov 2012 |
DOIs | |
Publication status | Published - 1 Dec 2012 |