The Big Three in Economics reveals the battle of ideas among the three most influential economists in world history: Adam Smith, representing laissez faire; Karl Marx, reflecting the radical socialist model; and John Maynard Keynes, symbolizing big government and the welfare state. History comes alive in this fascinating story of opposing views that continue to play a fundamental role in today’s politics and economics. In the twenty-first century, Adam Smith’s “invisible hand” model has gained the upper hand, and capitalism has ultimately won the ideological battle over socialism and interventionism. But even in the era of globalization and privatization, Keynesian and Marxist ideas continue to play a significant role in economic policy in the public and private sectors.
Download and start listening now!
"Provides detailed and interesting overview of the three big economical ideas the shaped the world as we know it today. It is however not a balanced review, the reader can easily detected a bias against Marx and his ideas." — Haider (4 out of 5 stars)
"Provides detailed and interesting overview of the three big economical ideas the shaped the world as we know it today. It is however not a balanced review, the reader can easily detected a bias against Marx and his ideas."
“A curious, enlightening, and creative account of the world’s three most influential economists, and why their theories have had such a huge impact on the economic history of the modern world.”
“Economics is emerging in the twenty-first century as the most dynamic of all the social sciences, and who is being resurrected as a guide to understanding? None other than Adam Smith himself, and the two giants who followed in his shadow. Three cheers for The Big Three in Economics!”
“[A] thoughtful, highly readable account that brings economics to life.”
“I love Mark Skousen’s book about the history of economists—it is so interesting and well written, and helps us visualize the big picture.”
" Its always great to renew your perspective about economics and even though the whole world has changed, the basic rules and ideas to social economics are still the same and very helpful for the financially minded. "
" Concise primer on all major economists since the beginning of the 'science'. "
" I would characterize this as a book of economic history. Not exactly light reading, but overall I enjoyed the book. I think it would be helpful to have some understanding of basic macroeconomics before delving in. "
" Interesting read. Certainly biased but provides some interesting historical information on Smith, Marx and Keynes. "
" A good book of economic history. "
JoAnn Skousen is the associate editor of Forecasts & Strategies. She is the coauthor of a number of books on investing, including the bestseller High Finance on a Low Budget. The former editor of Money Letter for Women, she currently teaches English at Mercy College in Dobbs Ferry.
Jeff Riggenbach (1947-2021) narrated numerous titles for Blackstone Audio and won an AudioFile Earphones Award. An author, contributing editor, and producer, he worked in radio in San Francisco for more than thirty years, earning a Golden Mike Award for journalistic excellence.
Audiobooks Were Restored to Your Cart
[ShoppingCartItemsAddedOnMerge] audiobook(s) were left in your cart from a previous visit, and saved to your account for your convenience. You may view or remove these audiobooks on the shopping cart page.