This passage, about self-interest, is from Adam Smith's The Wealth of Nations, which was published in 1776.

Every individual is continually exerting himself to find out the most advantageous employment for whatever capital he can command. It is his own advantage, indeed, and not that of the society which he has in view. But the study of his own advantage naturally leads him to prefer that employment which is most advantageous to the society.

According to the passage, how do people pursuing their own self-interests benefit society?

a) People will naturally take jobs where they can reform society.

b) The highest-paying jobs are also those that benefit the society the most.

c) People pursuing capital will always start new businesses.

d) Only good workers will find employment.

Question

Nathalie Strickland

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6 July, 19:24

This passage, about self-interest, is from Adam Smith's The Wealth of Nations, which was published in 1776.

Every individual is continually exerting himself to find out the most advantageous employment for whatever capital he can command. It is his own advantage, indeed, and not that of the society which he has in view. But the study of his own advantage naturally leads him to prefer that employment which is most advantageous to the society.

According to the passage, how do people pursuing their own self-interests benefit society?

a) People will naturally take jobs where they can reform society.

b) The highest-paying jobs are also those that benefit the society the most.

c) People pursuing capital will always start new businesses.

d) Only good workers will find employment.

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Answers (1)

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Sage Gill · Answer 1

The correct answer is b) The highest-paying jobs are also those that benefit the society the most.

According to this passage, people will naturally seek those jobs that benefit them the most. Coincidentally, these are the jobs that are most beneficial to the society.