Harold Demsetz Livres

A selection of writings on the theme of ownership, by a leading authority on industrial economics and organization. They all contain Demsetz's unique blend of positive theorizing and evidence gathering, and his use of simple verbal and geometric explanations of complex issues. This new volume includes several unpublished pieces, notably an overview of the economics of ownership, an examination of the ethical content of property rights arrangements and an introduction sketching the development of the author's ideas and career as an economist.

Exploring the interplay between human behavior and capitalist institutions, this collection of essays delves into how societal structures influence individual actions and vice versa. The author examines the psychological and economic factors that shape our interactions within a capitalist framework, offering insights into the complexities of human nature and the systems we navigate. Through thoughtful analysis, the essays challenge conventional views and encourage readers to reflect on the implications of capitalism in their lives.

The essays in this volume break new ground in the theory of the business firm and its applications in economics. A leading analyst of industrial organization, Professor Demsetz critically examines current debates on the existence, definition, and organization of the firm and discusses issues related to the emerging theory of the firm. He then analyzes the relation among business ownership, wealth, and economic development. Subsequent essays offer new perspectives on competition, profit maximization and rational behavior, and shed new light on managers' compensation, antitrust policy, and the accuracy of firms' accounting data.

Exploring the interplay between human behavior and capitalist institutions, the essays delve into how societal norms and individual actions shape economic systems. The authors analyze various aspects of capitalism, revealing insights into the motivations behind economic choices and the impact of these choices on society. Through a blend of theoretical perspectives and practical examples, the book offers a critical examination of the complexities of human interaction within capitalist frameworks.