The Fable of the Bees
The Fable of the Bees
Book Brief
Beta532
Poem • Fiction
England • 18th century
2013
Adult
18+ years
Super Short Summary
In The Fable of the Bees, Bernard Mandeville presents a poem with commentary that explores how individual selfish actions contribute to societal prosperity. Using a bee society as an allegory, the text examines the paradox where personal vices ultimately lead to collective benefits, questioning the relationship between morality and economic health.
Contemplative
Informative
Challenging
Mysterious
Reviews & Readership
309 ratings
Loved it
Mixed feelings
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Review Roundup
The Fable of the Bees by Bernard Mandeville offers a provocative examination of societal morals, suggesting that selfishness can lead to prosperity. Positive reviews highlight its thought-provoking nature and pioneering economic insights. However, critics note its controversial stance and dense prose. Overall, it's a challenging yet stimulating read for those interested in economic philosophy.
Who Should Read The Fable of the Bees?
A reader intrigued by the paradox of private vice leading to public virtue would enjoy Mandeville's The Fable of the Bees. Comparable to Adam Smith’s The Wealth of Nations and Thomas Hobbes’ Leviathan, it suits those interested in economic theory, moral philosophy, and societal critiques.
309 ratings
Loved it
Mixed feelings
Not a fan
The Fable of the Bees, initially published in 1714, stirred controversy due to its provocative subtitle, "Private Vices, Publick Benefits," which challenged the moral values of the time by suggesting economic prosperity arose from selfish acts.
The book is known for its influence on economic thought, making early insights into the idea that individual self-interest can lead to collective benefits, foreshadowing Adam Smith's invisible hand concept.
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Mandeville's work was subjected to legal challenges and accusations of immorality, reflecting its role in the intense debates regarding the ethics and functions of emerging capitalist societies in the 18th century.
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532
Poem • Fiction
England • 18th century
2013
Adult
18+ years
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