The Fable of the Bees: Or Private Vices, Publick Benefits, Vol 2

by Bernard Mandeville, F.B. Kaye (editor)

Beginning with a poem and continuing with a number of essays and dialogues, this book is all tied together by the startling and original idea that private vices (self-interest) lead to public benefits (the development and operation of society).

Genres: Philosophy, Economics, Politics

486 pages, Hardcover

First published January 1, 1714

About the author

Bernard Mandeville, or Bernard de Mandeville, was a philosopher, political economist and satirist. Born in the Netherlands, he lived most of his life in England and used English for most of his published works. He became famous (or infamous) for The Fable of the Bees.

Reviews

[Michael · Rating 1 out of 5]

As much as i liked volume 1, this, I didn't. It is written in the form of "Dialogues" mainly between just two characters as a justification and explanation of the ideas in volume 1. It is hard work and tedious.