Evolutions of Capitalism: Historical Perspectives, 1200-2000

This ambitious collection explores the evolution of capitalism from its 13th-century origins to its global expansion in the modern day, examining the variations and convergences in its operation across locations and the challenges to social responsibility and environmental sustainability.

Format: Hardback
Length: 274 pages
Publication date: 05 April 2022
Publisher: Bristol University Press

This comprehensive collection delves into the intricate journey of capitalism, tracing its roots back to the bustling European towns of the 13th century and its subsequent expansion into Asia, Africa, and South America in the 16th century. Written by renowned historians and social scientists, the chapters in this book offer a profound examination of capitalism and its critics, while also exploring the varying degrees of variation and convergence in its operation across different regions. The authors shed light on the aspects of capitalism that have fostered social responsibility and environmental sustainability, while also acknowledging the limitations that have hindered these goals.

By covering a wide range of times, places, and topics that have often been overlooked in the existing literature, this important contribution to the field of economic history presents the most comprehensive chronology of capitalism to date. The authors employ a multidisciplinary approach, drawing from various disciplines such as history, economics, sociology, and political science, to provide a holistic understanding of this complex economic system.

Through their insightful analysis, the chapters in this book shed light on the historical, social, and economic factors that have shaped the development of capitalism and its impact on societies around the world. They explore the origins of capitalism, its evolution over time, and the various stages it has gone through, including feudalism, mercantilism, and industrialization. The authors also examine the mechanisms that drive capitalism, such as market competition, private property, and the pursuit of profit, and the ways in which these mechanisms have shaped the economic and social structures of different countries.

In addition to its examination of capitalism and its critics, the book also explores the various challenges and criticisms that have been raised against it. The authors examine the impact of capitalism on inequality, poverty, and environmental degradation, and discuss the ways in which these issues have been addressed by governments, businesses, and social movements. They also consider the role of capitalism in promoting innovation, economic growth, and technological progress, and the ways in which these benefits have been distributed among different groups of people.

Overall, this comprehensive collection provides a valuable and insightful perspective on the evolution of capitalism and its impact on societies throughout history. It is a must-read for anyone interested in understanding the complex dynamics of this economic system and its implications for the future.

Dimension: 234 x 156 (mm)
ISBN-13: 9781529214802