The Formation of the Economic Thought of Karl Marx (1843 to Capital)

in this book, Ernest Mandel, author. of Late Capitalism, recently published by NLB, investigates the evolution of Marx' s economic ideas from their earliest beginnings down to the final preparation for the writing of Capital.  Of particular ınterest is his treatment of the question of the relation between the ideas of the young Marx and those of the Marx who wrote Capital. This is is often discussed in purely philosophical terms, here the emphasis is on the development of a scientific and critical economic theory. Mandel joins issue with others who have sought to interpret Marx on these questions and draws  for evidence on Marx's Grundrisse as well as more familiar writings.In his final chapter Mandel carries the argument forward into the present and future by discussing whether alienation is inevitable in industrial societies or can be progressively overcome in a socialist society.
Wide documentation and an extensive bibliography make this book an excellent guide to the most essential dimensions of Marx's thought
. "Mandel is an independent thinker, combining an exceptionally wide erudition with a remarkable lucidity and fluency of expression. . . the brilliant and provocative style of classical Marxism". Economist
"Probably among the best introductions to Marxist economic thought". David McLellan, Fontana Modern Masters