David Ricardo 
Letters of David Ricardo to Thomas Robert Malthus, 1810-1823 

David Ricardo’s ‘Letters of David Ricardo to Thomas Robert Malthus, 1810-1823’ offers a fascinating glimpse into the intellectual exchanges between two of the most influential economists of the early 19th century. Written in a formal yet engaging style, the letters provide valuable insights into Ricardo’s economic theories and his debates with Malthus on topics such as population growth, labor theory of value, and free trade. The book serves as a primary source for understanding the development of classical economics and the evolution of key concepts in the field. Ricardo’s keen analysis and logical reasoning are evident throughout the correspondence, making it a must-read for students and scholars of economic history and theory. David Ricardo, a prominent figure in the Classical School of economics, was a self-taught economist known for his theory of comparative advantage and contributions to the labor theory of value. His correspondence with Malthus sheds light on his intellectual curiosity and dedication to advancing economic thought. The letters showcase Ricardo’s deep understanding of economic principles and his commitment to scholarly dialogue and debate. I highly recommend ‘Letters of David Ricardo to Thomas Robert Malthus, 1810-1823’ to anyone interested in the history of economic thought and the foundational works of classical economics. This book offers a unique opportunity to engage with the ideas of two influential thinkers and gain a deeper understanding of their perspectives on economic issues.

About the author

David Ricardo (1772–1823) was a pivotal figure of classical economics, whose work and theories have had a profound influence on the development of economic thought. Born in London to a family of Sephardic Jewish roots, Ricardo amassed significant wealth as a stockbroker, which allowed him to engage in intellectual pursuits. He is most notably remembered for his contributions to the theory of rent, the labor theory of value, comparative advantage, and the principles of political economy and taxation. Although Ricardo’s ‘Principles of Political Economy and Taxation’ remains his most famous work, ‘Letters of David Ricardo to Thomas Robert Malthus, 1810-1823’ offers invaluable insights into his thoughts and the development of his ideas through correspondence with Malthus. The exchange of letters between these two intellectual giants explores their disagreements on economic theory, particularly regarding the law of diminishing returns and the principles of political economy. Ricardo’s literary style is marked by its rigor and analytical depth, reflecting his logical approach to economic problems and his ability to abstract and simplify complex ideas. His legacy persists in the fields of economics and political science, where his works continue to be studied for their revolutionary contributions to the discipline.