Towards a heterodox economic theory of poverty production

Schaller, Barbara (2014). Towards a heterodox economic theory of poverty production. University of Birmingham. Ph.D.

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Abstract

This thesis examines the contributions of three major figures in heterodox economic thought - Thorstein Veblen, Joan Robinson and Michał Kalecki - to the identification of what Else Oyen describes as ‘poverty producing processes’. It is argued that to date no distinct heterodox theory of the causes and consequences of poverty exists. This is surprising, not least because questions of social power, asymmetrical access to resources, and inequality are among the core themes in heterodox thought. This thesis demonstrates that Robinson, Kalecki and Veblen have devoted considerable time and effort to the investigation of poverty-related issues. Combined, they have discussed four key processes that contribute to poverty production: conspicuous consumption, mark-up pricing, industrial sabotage and hegemonic policy-making. This thesis suggests that these four core processes amount to a distinct heterodox perspective on poverty production, and may serve as a basis for a comprehensive enquiry into the causes of poverty in advanced capitalism. Being in essence a history of economic thought analysis of post-Keynesian and institutionalist theorising on poverty, this thesis contributes to economic poverty research, the history of economic thought and the development of an integrated heterodox approach.

Type of Work:

Thesis (Doctorates > Ph.D.)

Award Type:

Doctorates > Ph.D.

Supervisor(s):