Schumpeter and the Political Economy of Change

Throughout this century, economics as a discipline has not always been distinguished by its insightful treatment of temporal and spatial considerations. The exponents of neoclassical synthesis have often been criticized for failing to incorporate the dimension of time into their machinations, and while the concept of space has fared somewhat better, it still suffers from semantic debate. Structural and/or sectoral considerations have also been lacking, either encumbered by polemics or confounded by the inherited simplicities of the stage theorists. This work, which applies the analytical system of Joseph Schumpeter to spatial and structural dimensions, attempts to explain the role played by change in profit-seeking economies.

Following an introductory chapter that offers a brief description of the Schumpeterian dialectic and its explanation of how change occurs over time under capitalism, the book is divided into three main secions. The first addresses spatial considerations, covering ways in which Schumpeter's analysis can be applied to local and regional contexts in advanced economies; the dialectic in international economic processes, particularly the effect of multinational businesses on individual economies; and development prospects for Third World nations. Section two focuses on the structural dimension, specifically the emergence of service industries and Schumpeter's fears for the survival of capitalism. A hybrid overview of pole theory is also included. The final section offers reflections and a summary, and includes an assessment of the role of government in aiding or impeding change and an illustration of what governments can and cannot do to change their economies in the face of automatic capitalistic processes. This work will be a valuable reference source for courses in economic theory, economic policy, and political science as well as a useful addition to college, university, and public libraries.