Origins and Change of the Social Market Economy

This edited volume addresses the theoretical and historical foundations of the German Social Market Economy. Written to commemorate the 75th anniversary of the establishment of the Social Market Economy, chapter contributions discuss the ideas of its theoretical founders—Walter Eucken, Alfred Müller-Armack, Wilhelm Röpke, and Franz Böhm--as well as related influences such as Ordoliberalism, the historical school of economics, and the Catholic social doctrine. In addition, chapters analyze differences and parallels to alternative policy concepts, in particular Keynesianism. Finally, the volume turns toward contemporary discussions of the Social Market Economy in the present political and economic context, specifically its ability to cope with current challenges. Providing rich context for the establishment of Germany’s contemporary economic system, this volume will be of interest to researchers and students of political, social and economic systems, the history of economic thought, and political history.