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The Selected Letters of John Kenneth Galbraith: A Journey Through Time and Ideas

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The Selected Letters Of John Kenneth Galbraith: A Collection Of Letters By The Prominent Economist, Spanning His Life And Career. The Selected Letters Of John Kenneth Galbraith

John Kenneth Galbraith (1908-2006) was one of the most influential economists of the 20th century. His work on economic power, inequality, and the role of government in the economy shaped generations of policymakers and scholars. The Selected Letters of John Kenneth Galbraith, edited by James K. Galbraith, offers a unique glimpse into Galbraith's life, thought, and relationships.

The Selected Letters of John Kenneth Galbraith

by Richard P. F. Holt

4.7 out of 5

Language	:	English
File size	:	2728 KB
Text-to-Speech	:	Enabled
Screen Reader	:	Supported
Enhanced typesetting	:	Enabled
Word Wise	:	Enabled
Print length	:	742 pages

A Personal Journey

The letters in this collection span six decades, from Galbraith's early days as a young economist to his final years as an elder statesman. They provide a fascinating personal record of Galbraith's intellectual and political journey. Readers will witness Galbraith's evolution from a cautious Keynesian in the 1930s to a trenchant critic of the free market orthodoxy of the 1980s.

Intellectual Exchanges

Galbraith corresponded with a wide range of individuals, including presidents, prime ministers, fellow economists, and literary figures. His letters reveal the depth of his knowledge and the breadth of his interests. In one exchange with John Maynard Keynes, Galbraith discusses the merits of various economic theories. In another letter to President John F. Kennedy, he offers advice on the US economy.

Political Engagements

Galbraith was not only an economist but also a political activist. He served as an advisor to several Democratic presidents and played a key role in the development of the American welfare state. His letters provide insights into the political debates of his time, including the Vietnam War, the Civil Rights Movement, and the rise of conservatism.

Literary Reflections

In addition to his economic and political writings, Galbraith was also an accomplished literary critic. His letters reveal his deep appreciation for literature and his close friendships with authors such as Ernest Hemingway and John Cheever. Galbraith's literary sensibilities are evident in his own writing, which is characterized by its wit and elegance.

Themes and Insights

The Selected Letters of John Kenneth Galbraith offer a wealth of insights into some of the most important issues of the 20th century. Galbraith's letters address a wide range of topics, including:

* The nature of economic power and its implications for society * The role of government in regulating the economy and promoting social justice * The challenges of technological change and globalization * The importance of intellectual freedom and the pursuit of knowledge

The Selected Letters of John Kenneth Galbraith is an essential resource for anyone interested in the life and thought of one of the most influential intellectuals of the 20th century. This collection of letters provides a unique opportunity to engage with Galbraith's ideas, witness his intellectual and political journey, and appreciate his wit, wisdom, and humanity.

The Selected Letters of John Kenneth Galbraith

by Richard P. F. Holt

4.7 out of 5