The Making of Modern Economics: The Lives and Ideas of the Great Thinkers

The Making of Modern Economics presents a bold and engaging history of economics--the dramatic story of how the great economic thinkers built today’s rigorous social science.

This comprehensive yet accessible introduction to the major economic philosophers begins with Adam Smith and continues through to the present day. It examines the contributions each one made to our understanding of the role of the economist, the science of economics and economic theory. Boxes in each chapter highlight little-known and entertaining facts about the economists’ personal lives that had an influence on their work.

The fourth edition adds coverage of modern monetary theory, the COVID-19 pandemic, climate change, minimum wage debates, Schumpeter and socialism, Malthus and immigration, and more.

The Making of Modern Economics is a valuable, engaging text for courses in the history of economic thought and political economy.

Mark Skousen is an investment expert, economist, university professor, and author of more than 25 books. He earned his Ph.D. in monetary economics at George Washington University in 1977. He has taught economics and finance at Columbia Business School, Columbia University, Gratham University, Barnard College, Mercy College, Rollins College and as a Presidential Fellow at Chapman University.