Capitalism: The Reemergence of a Historical Concept

Format: Paperback / softback
Length: 296 pages
Publication date: 22 February 2018
Publisher: Bloomsbury Publishing PLC

Capitalism has been a contentious concept throughout history, with many historians either avoiding its use entirely or only briefly mentioning it in the second half of the 20th century. The term was often criticized for being too broad, holistic, vague, value-loaded, ideological, and polemic. However, in recent years, there has been a renewed interest in capitalism, leading to a surge of scholarly work exploring its significance and applicability to social and economic history.

This volume brings together leading scholars from various fields to examine why the term has experienced a resurgence and assess its usefulness in understanding the past. The contributors discuss whether the history of capitalism enables us to ask new questions, explore previously untapped sources, and uncover new connections between previously unrelated phenomena. The chapters present case studies drawn from diverse regions, including Europe, Africa, and beyond, providing a global perspective on the subject.

This timely reassessment of a crucial concept is of immense interest to scholars and students of economic history, as it offers valuable insights into the development of capitalism and its impact on societies throughout the world. By examining the past through the lens of capitalism, we can better understand the current economic and political landscape and explore potential alternatives for the future.

Weight: 456g
Dimension: 232 x 155 x 19 (mm)
ISBN-13: 9781350061552