ABSTRACT

Surely the answer must be negative. None the less it does not pretend to be a book on general economics. Rather it is a book on the foundations of economic thinking. In its defence, to understand the structure of any edifice, be it the Eiffel Tower or economic theory, one has to descend to its basement; to enter through unremarkable side doors and go down steps that are not trod by the general public or the guests of honour. Although one will have missed the glamorous façade or the spectacular views, exploring the guts of the building furnishes a unique view of how the whole edifice hangs together. It may be the least dazzling yet the most insightful perspective.