The Elgar Companion to David Ricardo

Book excerpt: Arguably one of the most important economists who has lived, Ricardo's impact on the economics profession is immense. This unique and comprehensive Companion elucidates his significance and continuing legacy. Ricardo made major contributions to all fields of the subject, from monetary issues to value and income distribution, from capital accumulation, technical progress and economic growth to foreign trade and international specialisation, and from taxes to public debt. What he called the main problem of political economy, the distribution of income and wealth, is again back on the political and economic agenda with a vengeance. Leading experts in the field explore his influence and offer novel interpretations of received doctrines.The concise yet comprehensive entries are arranged alphabetically for ease of use with cross references and suggestions for further reading. The Companion will serve as the standard reference work for all those engaged in the field of classical economics. It will also be essential reading for scholars and researchers interested in the history of economic thought, macroeconomics and political economy.