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Reappraising Austrian Economics' Basic Tenets in the Light of Aristotelian Ideas

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Abstract

This paper sustains that reappraising Austrian economics in the light of Aristotelian ideas is not only possible but also fruitful. First, I draw a sketch of the essential features of Austrian economics. Next, I argue about the necessity for a thorough analysis of the notion of freedom, and I analyze Mises' conception. Next, I expose Aristotle's social, epistemological and economic thought related to Austrian main traits. An account of how the exercise of Aristotelian virtues may be synergic with economic coordination and a sketch of the consequences of the proposal on the teaching of economics are then provided. Finally, the conclusion shortly sums up the content and relevance of Aristotle's contribution.

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Crespo, R.F. Reappraising Austrian Economics' Basic Tenets in the Light of Aristotelian Ideas. The Review of Austrian Economics 15, 313–333 (2002). https://doi.org/10.1023/A:1021114304135

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