Explore the latest books of this year!
Bookbot

Historical Perspectives on Modern Economics

This series delves into the origins and evolution of modern economic thought with historical rigor. Each volume offers a deep dive into pivotal moments and ideas that shaped contemporary economic understanding. It is designed for readers interested in intellectual history and a critical appreciation of economic concepts. The collection promotes a richer understanding of the genesis and substance of modern economics.

Designs Within Disorder
The Viennese Students of Civilization
Historical Perspectives on Modern Economics
Von Neumann, Morgenstern, and the Creation of Game Theory
The Economics of Karl Marx
Friedrich Engels and Marxian political economy

Recommended Reading Order

  • This book rejects the commonly encountered perception of Friedrich Engels as perpetuator of a "tragic deception" of Marx, and the equally persistent body of opinion treating him as "his master's voice". Engels's claim to recognition is reinforced by an exceptional contribution in the 1840s to the very foundations of the Marxian enterprise, a contribution entailing not only the "vision" but some of the building blocks in the working out of that vision. Subsequently, he proved himself to be a sophisticated interpreter of the doctrine of historical materialism and an important contributor in his own right. This volume serves as a companion to Samuel Hollander's The Economics of Karl Marx (Cambridge University Press, 2008).

    Friedrich Engels and Marxian political economy
  • This book offers a detailed examination of Marx's economic theories as presented in "Capital" and related works. It delves into the technical aspects of his analysis, exploring key concepts such as labor, value, and capital accumulation. By assessing Marx's arguments and methodologies, the author provides insights into the relevance of his ideas in contemporary economic debates, making it a valuable resource for students and scholars interested in Marxist theory and economic critique.

    The Economics of Karl Marx
  • This book argues that the work of the Austrian economists, including Carl Menger, Joseph Schumpeter, Ludwig von Mises and Friedrich Hayek, has been narrowly interpreted. Through a study of Viennese politics and culture, it is demonstrated that the project they were engaged in was much broader: the study of civilization.

    Historical Perspectives on Modern Economics
  • The book delves into the broader implications of the Austrian economists' work, highlighting their engagement with Viennese politics and culture as a defense of liberal civilization. Erwin Dekker emphasizes how figures like Carl Menger and Friedrich Hayek viewed their roles as stewards of civilization rather than merely social scientists. This perspective is rooted in the intellectual environment of interwar Vienna, where their ideas were shaped by the political challenges of the time. The study reveals a nuanced understanding of their contributions beyond traditional economic theory.

    The Viennese Students of Civilization
  • Designs Within Disorder

    Franklin D. Roosevelt, the Economists, and the Shaping of American Economic Policy, 1933 1945

    • 192 pages
    • 7 hours of reading

    The book explores Franklin D. Roosevelt's reliance on economic theories to address the Great Depression, mobilize for war, and establish a postwar order. It examines the competition among various economic perspectives that influenced his policy decisions during a time of significant economic and intellectual transformation. Roosevelt's initiatives not only redefined the American economy and government roles but also reshaped the discipline of economics itself, with many of his policies remaining influential for decades.

    Designs Within Disorder
  • Exploring a wide array of historical topics, this book delves into the evolution of economic thought and its implications for contemporary economic theories. It highlights key developments and figures that have shaped the discipline, providing insights into how past events influence current economic practices. Through its comprehensive approach, the book serves as a valuable resource for understanding the intricate relationship between historical context and economic theory.

    Economic Theories in a Non-Walrasian Tradition
  • Adam Smith's Moral Philosophy

    A Historical and Contemporary Perspective on Markets, Law, Ethics, and Culture

    • 352 pages
    • 13 hours of reading

    The book explores the interconnectedness of Adam Smith's two major works, presenting them as a unified theory rather than separate entities. It delves into the underlying themes and concepts that link his ideas on economics and morality, offering a comprehensive analysis of his contributions to modern thought. By examining the relationship between his theories, the author sheds light on Smith's enduring influence and relevance in contemporary discussions of economics and ethics.

    Adam Smith's Moral Philosophy
  • The Legacy of Scholasticism in Economic Thought

    Antecedents of Choice and Power

    • 228 pages
    • 8 hours of reading

    Focusing on the evolution of economic thought, this study explores the complexities of exchange economics, including prices, wages, and interest rates. It examines how individuals often make financial decisions out of necessity rather than genuine choice, a concept first articulated by medieval university scholars. The narrative traces this critical discussion from its medieval origins to contemporary perspectives, highlighting the enduring relevance of economic compulsion in shaping human behavior and market dynamics.

    The Legacy of Scholasticism in Economic Thought
  • From New Era to New Deal

    Herbert Hoover, the Economists, and American Economic Policy, 1921 1933

    • 252 pages
    • 9 hours of reading

    The examination focuses on Herbert Hoover's tenure as Secretary of Commerce and his economic policies during his presidency. It delves into his approaches to governance and the impact of his decisions on the economy from 1921 to 1933, providing insights into his leadership during a pivotal era in American history.

    From New Era to New Deal
  • The book explores the significant influence of advancements in monetary theory on the formation of the Bretton Woods Agreements in July 1944. It delves into how these theoretical developments shaped international economic policies and the establishment of a new monetary order, highlighting the interplay between economic thought and global governance during a pivotal moment in history.

    Monetary Theory and Bretton Woods