In this course we bring into conversation two subjects which are closely related, but rarely taught together: economic history and the history of economic thought. Ideas and material realities have always developed and changed together, and to properly understand the history of one, it’s vital to understand the context of the other. We draw upon cases from the ancient world to the twentieth century, surveying along the way the history of economics as it developed both intellectually and in conjunction with actual economies. We introduce students to some of the most powerful and influential economic thinkers, from Xenophon and Huan K’uan through Adam Smith and Karl Marx, to Abhijit Banerjee and Esther Duflo. We also explore the evolution of key economic concepts – the state and the market, natural resources, and crises – by situating them in historical context and perspective. Through analysis and discussion of some of the most important texts in the history of economics we trace the development of ideas, norms, and ways of thinking that continue to shape decision-making in both daily life and in global policy.
