Routledge Karl Polanyi and the Paradoxes of the Double Movement

Explore a critical reconstruction of one of the most influential theories of the 20th century. This book examines the central thesis of Karl Polanyi's The Great Transformation, focusing on the concept of the double movement. This process involves the establishment of a free market economy and the resulting efforts by society to mitigate its destructive effects. In Polanyi's vision, the double movement serves as a hidden gear driving social change and historical transformation within capitalism. This text provides a forensic examination and critique of his original argument. It develops an interpretive framework to help readers understand the complex relationship between market forces and social protection. This work is an essential resource for students and scholars studying social and political thought, offering a deep look into the mechanics of economic and social evolution.