A History of Russian Economic Thought

A History of Russian Economic Thought: Ninth Through Eighteenth Centuries offers an in-depth exploration of the evolution of Russian economic ideas from medieval times to the early modern period, serving as a critical resource for scholars seeking to understand the intellectual foundations of Soviet thought. Written by distinguished Soviet economists, the volume reexamines the historical interplay between Russian and Western economic ideas, challenging earlier interpretations that overemphasized Western influences while undervaluing Russia’s indigenous intellectual traditions. The authors meticulously analyze primary and secondary sources, offering fresh insights into the role of economic thought in shaping Russia’s early societal structures and its enduring legacy.

This translation aims to make these seminal essays accessible to Western readers, emphasizing the ideological context and nuances embedded in Soviet scholarship. Beyond its academic value, the book highlights the ideological divergence between Soviet and Western social thought, inviting readers to contemplate the underlying forces that shape intellectual and political dynamics across civilizations. With its comprehensive glossary, index, and faithful adherence to the authors’ intent, this volume not only illuminates the trajectory of Russian economic ideas but also fosters a broader understanding of how historical and ideological frameworks influence modern global relations.

This title is part of UC Press's Voices Revived program, which commemorates University of California Press’s mission to seek out and cultivate the brightest minds and give them voice, reach, and impact. Drawing on a backlist dating to 1893, Voices Revived makes high-quality, peer-reviewed scholarship accessible once again using print-on-demand technology. This title was originally published in 1964.