The Idea of a Moral Economy: Gerard of Siena on Usury, Restitution, and Prescription

Description

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. Cover Half-Title Title Copyright Contents Preface and Acknowledgments Introduction Gerard of Siena The Questions Economics, Theology, and Law Usury Restitution Prescription The Idea of a Moral Economy Manuscripts and Printed Texts Used in This Edition Editorial Practices Note on the Translation Abbreviations Edition / Translation Questio de usura / A Question on Usury Tractatus de restitutione / A Treatise on Restitution Questio de prescriptione / A Question on Prescription Bibliography Index of Citations General Index A B C D E F G H I J K L M N O P Q R S T U V W