Austrian Economics and believers in other schools of thought

Miscellaneous General
1

I’m just wondering if any Austrian Economists, that were well informed of the theories contained within the Austrian School, have changed their minds to become advocates of some other school of thought.

The only thing I’ve found is this: http://economics.gmu.edu/bcaplan/whyaust.htm

I’m just trying to find a rational, logical, or violence-free argument for socialism or central planning and I cannot find one. I’ve been reading non-austrian literature to attempt to learn more about other’s theories, and to bolster my own understanding so I can better refute them. I’m even open to seeing arguments for a monetarist school of thought, but I’m pretty familiar with Milton Friedmans arguments and I think they fall apart under close scrutiny.

I’ve also been arguing with someone who proposes that they are an “Anarcho-Syndicalist.” This individual is very interesting, in the sense that they rail against capitalism and socialism and I happen to agree with this person, especially when they describe the problems that plaque the world. The problem comes when they propose solutions. This person is advocating worker co-ops and allowing competition between them. I have responded that this type of activity could function in our current system with no need for reform. I am a bit perplexed by this person, because they are railing against Karl Marx and Communism and saying they have nothing to do with marxism, but then advocate economic propositions based on the labour theory of value.

I’m just confused. I think I might stop arguing economics with people because I don’t think anyone is interested in the truth or what actually happens in real life…

2

That’s because it doesn’t exist.

I’d recommend reading the Austrian refutations, two birds with one stone. i.e Hazlitt’s book on Keynes General Theory, Eugen von Boehm-Bawerk’s on Marx, Mises on Socialism etc.

I’d recommend itunes → podcasts → freedomain radio. [:)]

3

I can tell you that I don’t fit there. You should also meet Laughing_Man. He was a socialist but now his beliefs are more in line with what’s here.

We have different value systems and may see one system as better than another. Just keep learning and fighting the intellectual battle. :slight_smile: Don’t be discouraged.