"The Morality of Capitalism: Left, Right and Center"

Abstract

Historicaly there has been considerable debate about the moral status of capitalism, regardless of its practical achievements. Marx viewed it as exploitative, Adam Smith as good but for collectivistic reasons, and Ayn Rand as morally good because it was egoistic and individualistic. This symposium will feature presentations by three experts (on Marx, Smith and Rand, respectively). Thus the speakers will cover the full spectrum from left to right. There will be no discussant but rather an extended question period. Capitalism as Moral Presenter: Yaron Brook; Ayn Rand Institute Introduction Presenter: Edwin A. Locke; U. of Maryland, College Park Marx on the Morality of Capitalism Presenter: Richard Marens; California State U. Sacramento Adam Smith and the Role of Ethics in a Free Political Economy Presenter: Patricia Werhane; DePaul U.