Meaning: The quote by Albion Small, a prominent sociologist, highlights the relationship between modern sociology and Adam Smith's moral philosophy. Small suggests that modern sociology can be seen as an attempt to expand on the social analysis and interpretation that was initially present in Smith's moral philosophy. However, Small also acknowledges that this program of social analysis was suppressed for a considerable period due to the predominant focus on the technical aspects of wealth production.

Adam Smith, a Scottish philosopher and economist, is renowned for his influential work in the field of economics, particularly his seminal book "The Wealth of Nations," published in 1776. In this book, Smith laid the foundation for classical economics and introduced the concept of the invisible hand, which suggests that individuals pursuing their self-interest can unintentionally contribute to the overall good of society. However, Smith's contributions to sociology are often overshadowed by his economic theories.

Small's quote suggests that Smith's moral philosophy contained implicit elements of social analysis and interpretation that laid the groundwork for the development of modern sociology. While Smith is primarily known for his economic theories, his broader philosophical ideas about human behavior, social interactions, and the moral implications of economic activities contain the seeds of sociological inquiry.

It is important to note that Smith's moral philosophy emphasized the significance of moral sentiments, empathy, and the role of social interactions in shaping individual behavior. These aspects are fundamental to the study of sociology, as they form the basis for understanding human society, social relationships, and the dynamics of social change. Smith's emphasis on the moral dimensions of human behavior and social interactions resonates with the core concerns of sociology, which seeks to understand and analyze the complex interplay of individuals within social structures.

Small's assertion that the larger program of social analysis and interpretation present in Adam Smith's moral philosophy was suppressed for a century sheds light on the historical context of the development of sociology as a distinct academic discipline. The 19th century witnessed a predominant focus on industrialization, economic growth, and the accumulation of wealth, which led to a preoccupation with the technical aspects of production and economic efficiency. This focus on material progress and wealth creation marginalized the broader social and moral inquiries that were inherent in Smith's moral philosophy.

The emergence of modern sociology can be seen as a response to this historical context, as scholars and intellectuals sought to address the social consequences of industrialization, urbanization, and the rapid transformation of traditional social structures. Sociologists, inspired by the intellectual heritage of thinkers like Smith, aimed to explore the complexities of human society, the impact of social change on individuals and communities, and the underlying moral and ethical dimensions of social life.

In this sense, Small's quote not only underscores the intellectual lineage of modern sociology but also emphasizes the enduring relevance of Adam Smith's moral philosophy to the discipline. It invites scholars and students of sociology to revisit the moral underpinnings of social analysis and interpretation, recognizing the enduring value of Smith's insights into human nature, social cooperation, and the moral foundations of society.

Overall, Albion Small's quote serves as a thought-provoking reminder of the deep connections between Adam Smith's moral philosophy and the development of modern sociology. It encourages scholars to appreciate the historical context in which sociology emerged as a discipline and to recognize the enduring influence of Smith's ideas on the study of human society and social relationships. By acknowledging the suppressed program of social analysis implicit in Smith's moral philosophy, Small prompts a reevaluation of the intellectual roots of sociology and invites a renewed engagement with the moral and social dimensions of human experience.