Last
spring, Lawrin Armstrong, University of
Toronto published The
Idea of a Moral Economy: Gerard of Siena on Usury, Restitution, and
Prescription with the University of Toronto Press.
From the publisher:
The Idea of a Moral Economy is the first modern edition and English translation of three questions disputed at the University of Paris in 1330 by the theologian Gerard of Siena. The questions represent the most influential late medieval formulation of the natural law argument against usury and the illicit acquisition of property. Together they offer a particularly clear example of scholastic ideas about the nature and purpose of economic activity and the medieval concept of a moral economy.
In his introduction, editor Lawrin Armstrong discusses Gerard’s arguments and considers their significance both within the context of scholastic philosophy and law and as a critique of contemporary mainstream economics. His analysis demonstrates how Gerard’s work is not only a valuable source for understanding economic thought in pre-modern Europe, but also a fertile resource for scholars of law, economics, and philosophy in medieval Europe and beyond.
Some
reviews:
"In
its direct, succinct, and very insightful way, The Idea of a Moral Economy
makes a major contribution to the understanding of scholastic economic thought
and the transmission of ideas in the Middle Ages more generally." -William
Caferro
"Lawrin Armstrong's lucid translation
offers access to Gerard's thought and to the radical differences between his
'medieval' notions and those of modern capitalism." -Christopher Schabel
“Lawrin
Armstrong is to be praised for providing us with a valuable scholarly edition
of Gerard’s influential work.” -Stephen H. Rigby
Full
information is available here.
