ABSTRACT
The new economists had succeeded against enormous odds in challenging the myths that supported economic exploitation. As discussions among economists progressed in 1886, it became clear that adequate bases for compromise between the schools in economics were emerging. Partly the sentiment for compromise arose from developments within the discipline. Professionalism increased and economic investigation moved toward new paradigms. As professional economists practiced full-time scholarship, their commitment to ideology decreased somewhat while careerist activity increased. To influential leaders like Frank William Taussig and Henry Carter Adams, the orderly development of a desirable professional role seemed to depend on creating at least the appearance of unity. In the developing profession, a number of factors which counteracted polarization had already appeared. The emerging professional standards that led to the dropping of the platform continued to undermine Richard Ely's remaining influence. Ely won the battle over Chautauqua, but he lost his last hold on the leadership of the American Economic Association (AEA).
