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First Edition, with the rare 4-page publisher's catalog, dated April 1820, of this classic of economic theory. 8vo: vi,601, 1]pp. "London: Printed by C. Roworth, Bell-yard, Temple-bar." on colophon and title-page verso, as called for. Uncut, in the original publisher's drab blue paper-covered boards, largely unopened, with brown paper spine and remnants of original printed label. Internally, fresh and bright with only occasionally spotting, original spine largely perished but restored sensitively by an expert conservationist, the boards somewhat stained and bumped but thoroughly original, hinges reinforced. Small owner's book label, probably contemporary, partly effaced, reading T ? Cobb. Clamshell case with leather spine label gilt. An unsophisticated copy of a truly scarce (in publisher's binding), important, and desirable book, a cornerstone of economic thought and a major influence on other scientific endeavors, including the principles of evolution developed by Charles Darwin and Alfred Russell Wallace. Goldsmiths'-Kress 22767. Kress C577. Lowndes 1459. The title of Malthus's final major work is "something of a misnomer, as the book was conceived as a series of tracts rather than a comprehensive and systematic treatise. . . . The Principles had only a limited impact at the time, and was severely criticized by J. R. McCulloch and [David] Ricardo; the latter prepared extensive critical notes. But more recently it has received greater recognition, largely as a result of the comments by John Maynard Keynes in the 1930s. Keynes argued that Malthus's theory of effective demand provided a scientific explanation of unemployment, and that the hundred-year domination of Ricardo over Malthus had been a disaster for the progress of economics. Keynes believed that if economics had followed Malthus instead of being constrained by Ricardo in an artificial groove, the world would be a much wiser and richer place." (ODNB) N. B. With few exceptions (always identified), we only stock books in exceptional condition, carefully preserved in archival, removable mylar sleeves. All orders are packaged with care and posted promptly. Satisfaction guaranteed. (Fine Editions Ltd is a member of the Independent Online Booksellers Association, and we subscribe to its codes of ethics.). Seller Inventory # BB0781
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