This book explores the broad range of intellectual influences, ranging from the history of economic thought to political philosophy, that have shaped economics and its leading thinkers. It examines the relationship between economics and philosophy, in particular how liberalism has helped define economics since the days of Adam Smith. The entire history of economics, from Adam Smith to Thomas Piketty, is charted to highlight how economics has engaged with the political and philosophical ideas of the time. Particular attention is given to the ideas of Karl Polanyi, John Maynard Keynes, Friedrich Hayek, Milton Friedman, Paul Samuelson, Amartya Sen, Mariana Mazzucato and Thomas Piketty.

This book offers unique insight into the development of economics over several centuries. It will, in particular, be relevant to students and researchers interested in the history of economic thought and the political economy.