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Economic thought in Eighteenth Century America prior to independence

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  • James S. CICARELLI

Abstract

This paper examines the state of economic thought in the United States during the time period 1700 to 1775, an era that marks the end of the colonial age for the new nation. This essay starts with an over view of economic conditions during the final phase of colonialism in America. This is followed by a discussion of American economic thinking, divided into three distinct yet overlapping perspectives: (1) mainstream economic thought, which represents the dominant point of view about economics in America prior to the end of colonial status; (2) other voices, or economic perspectives focused on particular economic issues of the time and not the general state of economic thought; and (3) a crosscurrent or contrary view to mainstream economics, a way of viewing economics and economic thinking that takes exception to the popular economic paradigm of the time.

Suggested Citation

  • James S. CICARELLI, 2025. "Economic thought in Eighteenth Century America prior to independence," Journal of Social and Administrative Sciences, EconSciences Journals, vol. 12(3), pages 47-63, September.
    • Handle: RePEc:cvv:journ4:v:12:y:2025:i:3:p:47-63
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    References listed on IDEAS

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    1. repec:nsb:wpaper:2 is not listed on IDEAS
    2. Jelena Maravic & Mirjana Palic, 2005. "Econometric Analysis of Money Demand in Serbia," Working papers 2, National Bank of Serbia.
    3. Thayer, Theodore, 1953. "The Land-Bank System in the American Colonies," The Journal of Economic History, Cambridge University Press, vol. 13(2), pages 145-159, April.
    4. Galenson, David W., 1981. "White Servitude and the Growth of Black Slavery in Colonial America," The Journal of Economic History, Cambridge University Press, vol. 41(1), pages 39-47, March.
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    More about this item

    Keywords

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    JEL classification:

    • B11 - Schools of Economic Thought and Methodology - - History of Economic Thought through 1925 - - - Preclassical (Ancient, Medieval, Mercantilist, Physiocratic)
    • N41 - Economic History - - Government, War, Law, International Relations, and Regulation - - - U.S.; Canada: Pre-1913
    • P16 - Political Economy and Comparative Economic Systems - - Capitalist Economies - - - Capitalist Institutions; Welfare State

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