Description
Book SynopsisThe British economist Arthur Cecil Pigou (1877-59) reconceptualized economics as a theory of economic welfare and a logic of policy analysis. Misconceptions of his work abound. This book, an essay in demystification and the first reading of the entire Pigouvian oeuvre, stresses his pragmatic and historicist premises.
Trade Review“Its two authors are among the very few scholars who in recent years have paid a constant attention to Pigou’s economics … . they are particularly qualified to provide a comprehensive and contextualised reconstruction of Pigou’s theories. … a well-documented and detailed account of his economic thought. It is therefore an important contribution to the understanding of the academic and intellectual history of Cambridge economics.” (Daniela Donnini Macciò, The European Journal of the History of Economic, Vol. 24 (1), January, 2017)
“Completing the first ever book on Pigou is a notable achievement in itself. But the efforts Aslanbeigui and Oakes have put into collecting materials and exploring his vast oeuvre are simply outstanding. The book’s value as a biography is also high. This will remain an essential reference on Pigou for many years to come.” (Norikazu Takami, Journal of Economic Literature, Vol. 54 (1), March, 2016)
Table of ContentsAcknowledgements
Abbreviations
1. Pigou in the Foreground
2. 'The Most Brilliant Young Man I Know'
3. Developing a Framework
4. The Theory of Policy Analysis
5. The Cost Controversies
6. The Robbins Critique
7. Confrontations with Keynes
8. Legacy
Notes
References
Index
