Neo-Marxism and Post-Keynesian Economics: From Kalecki to Sraffa and Joan Robinson

Piero Sraffa and Joan Robinson, two Cambridge economists, were influenced by Karl Marx's economic theory and integrated key elements into their theories. This book argues that their work can be considered post-Keynesian neo-Marxist, building on the intellectual development of Kalecki, Steindl, Baran, and Sweezy. It examines Robinson's theory of economic growth and its relationship to Marx and Kalecki, highlighting similarities with neo-Marxist ideas such as the labor theory of value, class struggle, and rejecting Marx's falling rate of profits. The book appeals to readers interested in economic thought, post-Keynesian economics, and neo-Marxism.

Format: Paperback / softback
Length: 248 pages
Publication date: 29 January 2024
Publisher: Taylor & Francis Ltd

Two renowned Cambridge economists, Piero Sraffa and Joan Robinson, drew significant inspiration from the economic theories of Karl Marx and seamlessly incorporated essential aspects of Marx's economic system into their own frameworks. This book makes a compelling argument, supported by both published and unpublished documents, that the work of Sraffa and Robinson can be regarded as essentially post-Keynesian neo-Marxist.

In the first part of the book, the intellectual journey of several key thinkers who contributed to this neo-Marxist economic current is explored. These thinkers include Kalecki, Steindl, Baran, and Sweezy. Part One and Part Two examine the works of Robinson and Sraffa, respectively, and delve into the question of how they align with this specific neo-Marxist current. Robinson's work is seen as building upon it, while Sraffa's work takes a different direction. Part Three specifically focuses on Robinson's theory of economic growth and its relationship to Marx and Kalecki's perspectives.

Through meticulous analysis, Cuyvers highlights how the thought processes of Sraffa and Robinson share common characteristics with neo-Marxist key ideological ideas. These ideas include questioning the relevance of the labor theory of value, emphasizing the role of class struggle in income distribution, and rejecting Marx's notion of a falling rate of profits.

This book, building upon the insights presented in Cuyvers's earlier work, Economic Ideas of Marx's Capital (2017), will particularly appeal to readers with a deep interest in the history of economic thought, the works of Sraffa, Robinson, and Marx, post-Keynesian economics, and neo-Marxism. It offers a comprehensive exploration of these subjects, providing valuable insights and perspectives for scholars and enthusiasts alike.

Weight: 453g
Dimension: 234 x 156 (mm)
ISBN-13: 9781032254821