The Worldly Philosophers

The Worldly Philosophers splits each chapter between the biography of each thinker and a summary of their most important work. What does knowledge of their personal history add to your understanding of their ideas?

In the final chapter, Heilbroner argues that economics cannot be a science, and should stop aspiring to be one. What do you think of this argument? How does the practice of the worldly philosopher differ from the mathematically driven economic professional?

How do the worldly philosophers interpret the concept of class? How do their views on class support their arguments?

Which of the worldly philosophers do you think provides the most illuminating perspective on the global economy of today? Which is the least relevant to today?

According to Heilbroner, what is the primary function of economics, particularly as humanity moves toward an unknown future? In this context, what is the distinction between economic analysis and economic vision?

What are some of the major similarities between all of the worldly philosophers discussed in the book? What are their key differences?

In the first chapter, Heilbroner says that part of his goal is to convince the reader that economics is not cold, difficult, and abstract, but exciting, dangerous, and world changing. Did he succeed in convincing you? Why or why not?

How might the present cultural, political, and economic environment affect the economists of today?