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. This offers clear insights of these complicated questions

The Idea of a Moral Economy: Gerard of Siena on Usury, Restitution, and Prescription
By Lawrin Armstrong
Toronto Studies in Medieval Law
University of Toronto Press, Scholarly Publishing Division © 2016
ISBN 9781442643222
ISBN 9781442695696

ABSTRACT:

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.

TABLE OF CONTENTS:

• Preface and Acknowledgements
  Introduction
  Abbreviations
• Edition
  Quaestio de usura
  Tractatus de restitution
  Quaestio de praescriptione
• Translation
  A Question on Usury
  A Treatise on Restitution
  A Question on Prescription
• Bibliography

ABOUT THE AUTHOR:

Lawrin Armstrong is a professor at the Center for Medieval Studies, cross-appointed to the Departments of History and Economics, at the University of Toronto.

Featured PHOTO:

Usury and medieval banks Genoa 1340 © The British Library, c. Ms Additional 27695