History of Economic Thought (Economic Doctrines)

The History of Economic Thought, also known as Economic Doctrines, is the study of the evolution of ideas about how economies function. It traces the development of economic theories from ancient philosophers through major schools of thought such as Mercantilism, the Classical school of Adam Smith, the critiques of Karl Marx, the Keynesian revolution, and the rise of Neoclassical and behavioral economics. By examining how thinkers have grappled with fundamental questions of value, wealth, distribution, and the role of government in response to the social and political contexts of their times, this field provides crucial context for understanding the origins and assumptions behind contemporary economic policies and debates.

1. Introduction to the History of Economic Thought
   1. Defining Economic Thought
      1. Economic Thought vs Economic Theory
      2. Economic Doctrines vs Economic Analysis
      3. Schools of Thought vs Individual Contributions
   2. Purpose and Relevance of Studying Economic Doctrines
      1. Understanding Origins of Modern Theories
      2. Contextualizing Economic Policy Debates
      3. Revealing Underlying Assumptions and Ideologies
      4. Tracing Evolution of Economic Ideas
      5. Learning from Past Policy Successes and Failures
   3. Methodological Approaches to Economic History
      1. Relativist vs Absolutist Perspectives
      2. Role of Historical Context
      3. Interdisciplinary Influences
         1. Philosophy
         2. Politics
         3. Sociology
         4. Religion
      4. Textual Analysis and Interpretation
      5. Problem of Anachronism in Economic History
      6. Internal vs External History of Ideas