Books

Second edition, one of 1,000 copies, of Ricardo's fundamental contribution to the science of economics, following the first edition of 1817; very scarce uncut and preserving original boards. Ricardo is credited with the first systematic and scientific approach to economics; his exact mathematical approach and careful deductive methods provided a model for future texts in the field. Ricardo's interest in political economy was aroused in 1799 by a chance reading of Adam Smith. While he enjoyed cordial relations with Malthus, his economic views were decidedly anti-Malthusian. In 1815 he was urged by James Mill and others to set out a systematic account of his own theories. This led to the publication of the Principles, the result of little more than six months sustained work on his part. The "principal problem in political economy" as he defines it, is the "laws" which regulate "the natural course of rent, profits and wages" over time (preface). However, his book covered not only those laws but also a newly developed labour theory of value, the theory of international comparative advantage, monetary theory, the influence of taxation, and strictures on the writings of his predecessors and contemporaries. Octavo. Uncut in original boards, skilfully rebacked to contemporary style with green cloth, preserving printed paper label. Label somewhat soiled and rubbed, tips worn, some light foxing, a very good copy. Carpenter XXXVII (2); Goldsmiths' 22322; Kress C.401; Mattioli 3016; Sraffa 5b; not in Einaudi.