The Great Transformation by Karl Polanyi
The Political and Economic Origins of Our Time
The book in question is a seminal work in economic and social history that examines the development and impact of the modern market economy on global societies. It argues that the rise of market capitalism in the 19th century fundamentally transformed social structures and human relationships, with the commodification of land, labor, and money turning them into tradable goods. This transformation led to social dislocation and crises, prompting a counter-movement for social protection and the rise of the welfare state. The author challenges the idea that the market economy is a natural and inevitable form of social organization, instead presenting it as a constructed system with profound effects on the fabric of society.
The 3427th greatest book of all time
- Published
- 1944
- Nationality
- Canadian
- Length
- Medium
- Pages
- 300-400
- Original Language
- English
- Avg User Rating
-
(4.0)
- Alternate Titles
- None
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This book is on the following 3 lists:
- 1206th on Our Users' Honorable Mention Favorite Books of All Time (The Greatest Books Users)
- 100 Best Non-Fiction Books of the 20th Century (and Beyond) in English (Counterpunch)
- The Hundred Most Influential Books Since The War (WW2) (Central and East European Publishing Project)