Theory and History. An Interpretation of Social and Economic Evolution.

VON MISES, Ludwig.

$4,800.00

Item Number: 133816

New Haven: Yale University Press, 1963.

First edition, second printing of Mises’ classic work. Octavo, original cloth. Presentation copy, inscribed by the author on the front free endpaper, “To Mr. Merle Gwinn Ludwig von Mises.” Fine in a fine dust jacket. Uncommon signed and inscribed.

Theory and History discusses the theory of economics, the study of purposive human action, and with history, the record of the past actions of individuals. All actions are determined by ideas. Thoughts and ideas are "real things," Mises writes. "Although intangible and immaterial, they are factors in bringing about changes in the realm, of tangible and material things." Rather than rejecting the study of historical change as a "useless pastime," Mises considers it of the utmost practical importance. "History looks backward into the past, but the lesson it teaches concerns things to come."