Bernard Mandeville
Bernard Mandeville, or Bernard de Mandeville, was an Anglo-Dutch philosopher, political economist, satirist, writer and physician. Born in Rotterdam, he lived most of his life in England and used English for most of his published works. He became famous for The Fable of the Bees.
The Fable of the Bees; Or, Private Vices, Public Benefits
A hive of busy bees reveals how hidden selfishness and greed surprisingly build a strong community.
By Bernard Mandeville
An Enquiry into the Causes of the Frequent Executions at Tyburn (1725)
Witness the disturbing reality of 18th-century London where hangings were commonplace, and explore the societal flaws that led to such frequent and often unjust executions.
By Bernard Mandeville
A Letter to Dion
Explore a controversial argument about whether so-called bad behavior might actually be a secret ingredient for a successful society.
By Bernard Mandeville
An Enquiry into an Origin of Honour; and the Usefulness of Christianity in War
In a world of virtue and war, two characters debate whether honor stems from genuine goodness or a self-serving human passion shaped by society and power.
By Bernard Mandeville
Aesop Dress'd; Or, A Collection of Fables Writ in Familiar Verse
Animals act out human follies in clever verses, revealing timeless lessons about pride and consequence.
By Bernard Mandeville