invisible hand

In Adam Smith's The Wealth of Nations, he describes an "invisible hand" which is a metaphor for the idea that people acting in their own private interests will improve society as a whole. This principle of capitalism is an integral part of the modern market economy.

...every individual necessarily labours to render the annual revenue of the society as great as he can. He generally, indeed, neither intends to promote the public interest, nor knows how much he is promoting it. By preferring the support of domestic to that of foreign industry, he intends only his own security; and by directing that industry in such a manner as its produce may be of the greatest value, he intends only his own gain, and he is in this, as in many other cases, led by an invisible hand to promote an end which was no part of his intention. Nor is it always the worse for the society that it was no part of it. By pursuing his own interest he frequently promotes that of the society more effectually than when he really intends to promote it. I have never known much good done by those who affected to trade for the public good. (Smith, <U>An Inquiry into the Nature and Causes of the Wealth of Nations</U>)

by Graham MacFarlane June 10, 2004

invisible hand

A group or organizations influences that are most likely unknown to any members not in the group.

The invisible hand of CSH

by Fotios June 10, 2004

invisible hand

Economic term originated by some guy who I forgot claiming that there's an invisible hand guiding consumers to make the best descisions for the economy.

We may be in a depression, but it's only a matter or time before the invisible hand fixes things up.

by Burgermeister June 10, 2004

invisible hand

The process by which the economy will correct itself according to Adam Smith.

The government doesnt need to do anything, the invisible hand will fix the economy

by James Hannan June 7, 2004

invisible hand

To masturbate after lying on your hand for several minutes making it numb thus becoming invisible.

"I gave my invisible hand a good shag last night"

by Galoot of the Grove June 9, 2004

invisible hand

Also known as "the stranger."
Masturbatory practice in which you sit on your hand until it falls asleep, then go to town on yourself, thus giving the sensation that someone else is wanking you.

Ron was so lonely, he had to use the Invisible Hand technique to keep from blowing his brains out.

by Doomie June 8, 2004

invisible hand

Adam Smith's economic theory that everyone is motivated by self interest, and the "invisible hand" stabilizes the economy

The invisible hand moves every day to stabilize the economy

by Jill June 7, 2004