Benjamin Franklin's principles of political economy: a speculative inquiry

Abstract

Purpose

The purpose of this paper is to examine the extent to which Benjamin Franklin's understanding of political economy was shaped by his association with the French school of writers known as physiocrats.

Design/methodology/approach

The paper works from direct statements by Franklin in his published works and correspondence and biographical sources.

Findings

Franklin declared himself to embrace physiocratic principles and ideals but was not able to advance these ideals at home.

Research limitations/implications

Further details are undoubtedly available from sources not translated from French into English.

Practical implications

The course of history would have been significantly different had the physiocratic ideals become the basis for law and public policies.

Originality/value

The paper offers further evidence of the influence of the physiocratic school on Franklin, as one of the leading practical philosophers of his age.

Citation

Dodson, E.J. (2009), "Benjamin Franklin's principles of political economy: a speculative inquiry", International Journal of Social Economics, Vol. 36 No. 4, pp. 428-446. https://doi.org/10.1108/03068290910947958