Normative Political Economy

Normative Political Economy explores the criteria we use for judging economic institutions and economic policy. It argues that prevailing criteria lack sufficient depth in their understanding of subjective experience. By uncovering the meaning of this experience through reference to psychoanalytic theory, the book changes the way we understand the processes and structures of ‘political economy’. The currency of David Levine’s argument are fundamental concepts of universal importance. These are considered within, and against, the framework of the global capitalist system. Topics covered include: basic needs, equality and justice freedom, self-integration and creative living the role of the state capitalism and the good society. This book represents essential reading for any student of economics, political science or moral philosophy.

Author Biography

David Levine is Professor of Economics in the Graduate School of International Studies at the University of Denver. He is the author of nine books and numerous articles in the fields of economic theory, political economy and applied psychoanalysis. His recent publications include Wealth and Freedom (1995), Self-Seeking and the Pursuit of Justice (1997), and Subjectivity and Political Economy (1998).