The Annotated Works of Henry George: The Science of Political Economy

Henry George was a social reformer and economist known for his book "Progress and Poverty" (1879), which criticized privileged monopolies and industrialization. This six-volume edition of his works includes the unabridged text of "The Science of Political Economy" (1898), supplemented by annotations and an index. George's ideas continue to inspire scholars and reformers today, and he is recognized as one of the most original and systematic architects of political economy in the nineteenth century.

Format: Paperback / softback
Length: 578 pages
Publication date: 15 September 2023
Publisher: Fairleigh Dickinson University Press

Henry George, a prominent social reformer and economist of the late 19th century, emerged amidst the industrial and intellectual turmoil. His renowned work, "Progress and Poverty" (1879), vividly portrays the devastating consequences of privileged monopolies and the hardships of industrialization, expressed with eloquence and indignation. George's reform agenda remains relevant today, echoing the concerns of his era. His passionate prose and profound ideas resonated with diverse figures such as Leo Tolstoy, John Dewey, Sun Yat-Sen, Winston Churchill, and Albert Einstein. This six-volume edition of "The Annotated Works of Henry George" presents all of George's major works, including the unabridged and posthumously published text of "The Science Political Economy" (1898). The annotations provide extensive explanations of George's references to other political economists and writers, both renowned and obscure. A new index enhances accessibility to the text, critical annotations, and their key terms. The introductory essay by Professor Francis K. Peddle, titled "Political Economy and the Satisfactions of Wealth," offers a historical, economic, and primarily philosophical context for George's debates with prominent political economists and thinkers of his time.

Henry George is often portrayed in history books and documentaries as a pivotal reformer during the Gilded Age, alongside other influential figures who contributed to the social and economic advancements of the Progressive Era from the 1890s to the 1920s. However, "The Science of Political Economy" reveals a different side of George, showcasing him as one of the most significant political economists of his era.

In "The Science of Political Economy," George delves into the fundamental principles of economics and their impact on society. He challenges the conventional economic theories of his time, which he believed were flawed and perpetuated inequality and poverty. George advocated for a single tax system, which he believed would eliminate the unfairness of property taxes and promote economic growth. He also proposed a land value tax, aimed at redistributing wealth from landowners to the general public, and a system of public ownership of natural resources, such as land and minerals, to ensure their efficient use and prevent exploitation.

George's ideas were ahead of their time and faced significant opposition from established economists and political leaders. However, his unwavering commitment to social justice and his ability to articulate his vision in compelling prose made him a powerful advocate for reform. His ideas resonated with a growing movement of social activists and thinkers who sought to address the challenges of industrialization and the growing divide between the rich and the poor.

One of the most significant aspects of "The Science of Political Economy" is George's critique of the concentration of wealth and power in the hands of a few individuals and corporations. He argued that this concentration of wealth led to economic inequality, political corruption, and social unrest. George believed that the only way to break the cycle of poverty and inequality was to promote economic democracy and distribute wealth more evenly.

George's ideas had a profound impact on the Progressive Era and beyond. His single tax system, land value tax, and public ownership of natural resources became popularized as progressive reforms in various countries. His ideas also influenced the development of social welfare programs and the fight for labor rights and social justice.

Despite his significant contributions to economics and social reform, Henry George remains relatively unknown to many people today. "The Science of Political Economy" serves as a valuable resource for scholars and activists who seek to understand the origins of modern economic systems and the challenges facing society today. It provides a comprehensive analysis of George's ideas and their historical context, and it sheds light on the ongoing debates about economic inequality, social justice, and the role of government in shaping society.

In conclusion, Henry George's "The Science of Political Economy" is a seminal work that challenges conventional economic theories and advocates for a more equitable and sustainable economic system. George's ideas resonated with a growing movement of social activists and thinkers who sought to address the challenges of industrialization and the growing divide between the rich and the poor. Despite facing opposition and criticism, George's commitment to social justice and his ability to articulate his vision in compelling prose made him a powerful advocate for reform. "The Science of Political Economy" remains a valuable resource for scholars, activists, and anyone interested in understanding the origins.

Weight: 912g
Dimension: 228 x 153 x 35 (mm)
ISBN-13: 9781683933403