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Rhetoric and logic in Smith's Description of the Division of Labor

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  • Jean-Louis Peaucelle

    (UR - Université de La Réunion)

Abstract

This article analyses the first chapter of the Wealth of Nations, where the division of labor is defined and its effects described. It first shows the rhetoric and logical effects which are used to win the reader's goodwill. Then it reviews 19 th century debates on the validity of the theory. Lastly it cites three real cases where the division of labor does not increase the productive power of labor. In conclusion, it suggests that the theory on division of labor appears to require some adjustment, while acknowledging that some of the facts underlying arguments in its support are naturally true. 2 Rhetoric and Logic in Smith's Description of the Division of Labor Abstract: This article analyses the first chapter of the Wealth of Nations, where the division of labor is defined and its effects on productivity described. It first shows the rhetoric and logical effects which are used to win the reader's goodwill. Then it reviews 19 th century debates on the validity of the theory. Lastly it cites three real cases where the division of labor does not increase the productive power of labor. In conclusion, it suggests that the theory on division of labor appears to require some adjustment, while acknowledging that some of the facts underlying arguments in its support are naturally true. " The division of labour so far as it can be introduced, occasions, in every art, a proportionable increase of the productive powers of labour.

Suggested Citation

  • Jean-Louis Peaucelle, 2012. "Rhetoric and logic in Smith's Description of the Division of Labor," Post-Print hal-01402198, HAL.
    • Handle: RePEc:hal:journl:hal-01402198
    DOI: 10.1080/09672567.2010.499473
    Note: View the original document on HAL open archive server: https://hal.univ-reunion.fr/hal-01402198
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    References listed on IDEAS

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    1. Jean-Louis Peaucelle, 2006. "Adam Smith's use of multiple references for his pin making example," The European Journal of the History of Economic Thought, Taylor & Francis Journals, vol. 13(4), pages 489-512.
    2. Jean-louis Peaucelle, 2005. "Raisonner sur les épingles, l'exemple d'Adam Smith sur la division du travail," Revue d'économie politique, Dalloz, vol. 115(4), pages 499-519.
    3. Young, Allyn A., 1928. "Increasing Returns and Economic Progress," History of Economic Thought Articles, McMaster University Archive for the History of Economic Thought, vol. 38, pages 527-542.
    4. Jean-Louis Peaucelle, 2006. "Adam Smith's use of multiple references for his pin making example," Post-Print hal-01403682, HAL.
    5. George J. Stigler, 1951. "The Division of Labor is Limited by the Extent of the Market," Journal of Political Economy, University of Chicago Press, vol. 59(3), pages 185-185.
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