# Benevolence

## Definition

The natural human disposition toward kindness and goodwill toward others, which Smith argues is insufficient as a basis for economic organisation since individuals cannot rely on others' benevolence alone to meet their needs in a complex society.

## Source Chapter

Book I, Chapter 2

## Context

Smith contrasts benevolence with self-interest as motivations for economic exchange, arguing that we do not expect our dinner from the butcher's benevolence but from his regard to his own interest, establishing self-love as the more reliable foundation for economic cooperation.

## Economic Domain

General Theory

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