The Austro-Libertarian Point of View: Essays on Austrian Economics and Libertarianism

This book covers various areas of economic theory and political philosophy from the perspective of Austrian Economics and libertarianism, offering an integrated view of these two schools of thought. It builds from the foundations of Austrian approach and applies it to individual, macroeconomic, and legal and public policy issues. The authors argue that Austrian economics is a scientific enterprise based on liberty of the will and that it can support libertarianism through its positive insights.

Format: Paperback / softback
Length: 198 pages
Publication date: 03 November 2022
Publisher: Springer Verlag, Singapore

This comprehensive book delves into various aspects of economic theory and political philosophy, offering a unique perspective rooted in Austrian Economics and libertarianism. Spanning a wide range of topics, it addresses Epistemology and Methodology, Microeconomics, Macroeconomics, Labor Economics, International Economics, Political Philosophy, Law and Public Policy, all from an Austro-libertarian lens. By integrating these diverse disciplines, the book provides a holistic understanding of libertarianism and Austrian economics in the context of contemporary debates in economic science and political philosophy.

Building upon the foundations of Austrian approach, particularly in epistemology and methodology, the book explores how these principles apply to individuals and their interactions within the realm of microeconomics. This foundation then enables an exploration of macroeconomic subjects, offering a comprehensive perspective on economic phenomena. Moreover, the book applies Austro-libertarianism to law, politics, and public policy, providing a unified framework for analyzing these critical domains.

Futerman and Block clarify that their book is not a manual but rather a collection of highly relevant essays that shed light on the misconceptions prevalent in orthodox economics, law, and politics. The central concept in Austrian economics is "human action," which emphasizes the exercise of human will and volition rather than mere physical interactions. This philosophical foundation sets Austrian economics apart as a scientific enterprise focused on understanding the complexities of human behavior and decision-making.

Futerman and Block further distinguish Austrian economics as a scientific discipline based on liberty of the will from "libertarianism" as an advocacy based on specific policies derived from such liberty. While Austrian economics is positive and libertarianism is normative, the book demonstrates how these two perspectives are interconnected and mutually reinforcing. It explores how Austrian economic principles can guide policy decisions and promote individual freedom and prosperity.

In conclusion, this book offers a valuable resource for scholars, policymakers, and individuals interested in exploring the intersection of economic theory and political philosophy from an Austro-libertarian perspective. It provides a comprehensive and insightful exploration of a wide range of topics, offering a fresh and thought-provoking perspective on these critical domains. By integrating Austrian economics and libertarianism, the book offers a holistic framework for understanding the complexities of human behavior, economic systems, and public policy.

Weight: 349g
Dimension: 235 x 155 (mm)
ISBN-13: 9789811646935
Edition number: 1st ed. 2021