This book explores the broad range of intellectual influences, ranging from the history of economic thought to political philosophy, that have shaped economics and its leading thinkers. It examines the relationship between economics and philosophy, in particular how liberalism has helped define economics since the days of Adam Smith. The entire history of economics, from Adam Smith to Thomas Piketty, is charted to highlight how economics has engaged with the political and philosophical ideas of the time. Particular attention is given to the ideas of Karl Polanyi, John Maynard Keynes, Friedrich Hayek, Milton Friedman, Paul Samuelson, Amartya Sen, Mariana Mazzucato and Thomas Piketty.
This book offers unique insight into the development of economics over several centuries. It will, in particular, be relevant to students and researchers interested in the history of economic thought and the political economy.
1. Introduction.- 2. Economic and political developments.- 3. Liberalism.- 4. Karl Polanyi's critique of market liberalism.- 5. Keynes and Hayek - both liberals but economic adversaries.- 6. Friedman and Samuelson at odds on Keynes.- 7. Mariana Mazzucato attacks the philosophy of neoclassical economics.- 8. Thomas Piketty's crusade against inequality.- 9. Epilogue.
Peter de Haan is a member of the Royal Netherlands' Association of Economists, Correspondent Member of the Bolivian Academy of Economic Sciences. A macroeconomist and a development economics specialist, de Haan has gained wide experience in development cooperation in Africa, Asia, and Latin America, and specialises in economic history and economic development.
