invisible hand

American  

[in-viz-uh-buhl hand] / ɪnˈvɪz ə bəl ˈhænd /

noun

1. (in the economics of Adam Smith) an unseen force or mechanism that guides individuals to unwittingly benefit society through the pursuit of their private interests.

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invisible hand Cultural  

1. A term used by Adam Smith to describe his belief that individuals seeking their economic self-interest actually benefit society more than they would if they tried to benefit society directly. The statement “What's good for the country is good for General Motors, and vice versa” expresses essentially the same belief.

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Etymology

Origin of invisible hand

First recorded in 1775–80

Example Sentences

Many cite the Invisible Hand theory of the economist Adam Smith in support of their claim that unregulated markets harness the interests of self-interested individuals in the service of society as a whole.

From New York Times • Apr. 2, 2021

The "Invisible Hand" refers to the idea that unseen market forces balance the demand and supply of goods in a free market.

From BBC • Jun. 25, 2019

Adam Smith, who expostulated the theory of the Invisible Hand in “The Wealth of Nations” in 1776, believed that most business was narrowly focused on reducing costs and improving quality.

From Washington Post • Feb. 15, 2019

Although "The Invisible Hand" is more explicitly political, its characters and moral shadings are every bit as complex and nuanced.

From Los Angeles Times • Apr. 20, 2018

What a plight if you were forced to look to the Invisible Hand for your food and shelter!

From Autobiography of a Yogi by Yogananda, Paramahansa