Inquiry Concerning Virtue

The 3rd Earl of Shaftesbury, in his work, introduced the concept of a "moral sense". He argued against the idea that human nature is solely driven by selfishness, proposing instead that natural affections like benevolence and sympathy exist. These feelings foster an "affection for virtue," creating a natural alignment between virtue and self-interest. While acknowledging contrary desires, Shaftesbury suggested that the pleasures derived from virtue are ultimately superior to those of vice. This perspective contributed to the optimistic outlook of the 18th-century Enlightenment.12