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461 bytes added ,  01:26, February 23, 2011
I haven't ever read anything about this, but I believe that original research can be added
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:"[B]y 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 not 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." (Emphasis added)
 
:"[B]y 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 not 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." (Emphasis added)
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However, [[game theory]] suggests that this is not always true; in circumstances where individuals are not allowed private property rights each individual acting in their own self-interest does not result in the socially optimal outcome. One such example is the [[problem of the commons|tragedy of the commons]].
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However, [[game theory]] suggests that this is not always true; in circumstances where individuals are not allowed private property rights each individual acting in their own self-interest does not result in the socially optimal outcome. One such example is the [[problem of the commons|tragedy of the commons]].  
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== The invisible hand in nature ==
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The invisible hand is seen outside of an economic context in nature. There is no [[EPA]] appointed [[czar]] who insists that [[fish]] only be found in rivers lakes and ponds, and no bureaucrat that dictates that the kingfishers only be found where fish live. A complete ecosystem can assemble from [[Great Flood|wreckage]] and have the illusion of having been assembled together with out having ever experienced disaster.
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== References ==
 
== References ==

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