Abstract

In this chapter, Erik W. Matson describes how Hume’s international theory derives from his understanding of commerce and international trade as sources of moral improvement. Drawing on Hume's ideas of technical progress and innovation, Hume’s writings are shown to convey a nascent theory of comparative advantage.Trade benefitstrich and poor countries alike, facilitating a process of mutual emulation and development. International trade, moreover, contributes in Hume's view to cultural enhancement through its effects on socialization and the consequent extensions of individual sympathy.