Ludwig Von Mises

Fountainhead of the Modern Microeconomics Revolution

By: Eamonn Butler

Narrated by: Jeff Riggenbach

The Austrian economist Ludwig von Mises is increasingly recognized as one of the most important originators of modern economic thought. This book studies his ideas in a clear and systematic way and pulls out from Mises's own writings the main themes of his work. Mises's central theme is an emphasis on microeconomics. All real economic decisions, he insists, are taken by particular people at particular times and places; the motivating forces, therefore, are personal and psychological. In this view, economics is not a science at all, but a discipline more like mathematics or geometry. Its principles are deduced not by observation and experiment, but from certain axiomatic facts about the nature of human choice. This basic insight allows Mises to study important topics such as entrepreneurship and competition in new and fruitful ways.©1988 Eamonn Butler (P)1993 Blackstone Audio, Inc.

Critic reviews

"Riggenbach, a radio announcer and longtime voiceover artist, has an engaging, authoritative voice." ( Talking Book Review)

An economic giant for the rest of us...

This book is a thoroughly outstanding explanation of the work of Ludwig von Mises. Butler takes Mises' complex work and translates it into a very readable presentation of ideas. It's a great complement to F.A. Hayek's "The Road to Serfdom." I recommend it to those who are interested in why the Obama administration's policies and stimulus efforts are slow to impact the recession and return us to prosperity. The basics laid out in this book give great insights into how we got into the current economic mess. Considering that, it also gives strong cues as to how to get us on the path to long term economic strength.

good economic history

Very interesting story behind one of the great economists who stands in the shadow of Hayak and Keynes (but deserves to stand with them). It was not overly technical and all in all enjoyable.

Plays to Fast

This recording plays fast. It is a good book but there is something wrong with the recording that makes this a difficult one tolisten to.

It's all here.

Would you recommend this audiobook to a friend? If so, why?

I would recommend it to a studious intgeligent friend because it gets right to the kernal of how society is motivated or restrained.

What other book might you compare Ludwig Von Mises to and why?

This book is unique in my experience. I wanted to read about the man but instead I discovered the idea. The idea is more powerful than the man, even though the author does not hesitate to point out flaws.

What about Jeff Riggenbach’s performance did you like?

Riggenbach has a wonderful voice and comprehension of the subject.

Was this a book you wanted to listen to all in one sitting?

I listen to parts of this book over and over to build my undrstanding of those parts that contrast with popular opinion.

Any additional comments?

Mises was a slave of truth. He was incapable of adjusting to popular trends.

Homo emoticus rules homo economicus

I had not realized how much von Mises focused on the psychological and emotional aspects of economics; had always assumed he was more of a pure rationalist. Found myself saying, "Yes, that is where the classical model fails" and "Yes, empiricism can ony crudely capture that." A very worthwhile book read well!