Final answer:
Richard Saunders is considering aligning his personal interests with societal benefit, complying with unnamed wishes to use his knowledge profitably, paralleling Adam Smith's idea of the 'invisible hand' where individual gains contribute to the common good.
Step-by-step explanation:
In the excerpt, Richard Saunders expresses a desire to conform to someone’s wishes that he leverage his knowledge for profitable means. This sentiment follows a broader theme often discussed in Enlightenment literature, where personal gain and the welfare of society are frequently intertwined.
The phrase “he wants to comply with his ________ wishes” suggests an external influence or expectation guiding Richard’s actions towards utilizing his intellect for monetary benefit, though the specific individual or group to whom these wishes belong is not directly mentioned in the provided text.
The concept of personal interest aligning with social benefit is further explored in the references to an “invisible hand” that guides individuals to inadvertently promote societal interests by pursuing their own.
This principle, famously described by Adam Smith, highlights how personal endeavor can have positive repercussions for the wider community, as individuals strive to improve their own situations.
Such a notion resonates with Richard’s contemplation of putting his knowledge to a profitable venture which, presumably, would not only serve his interests but potentially benefit others as well.