Political economy

A concise and approachable introduction, this treatise aims to bring the essential ideas of political economy into the reach of anyone eager to understand how nations grow rich and why some remain poor. Written for pupil‑teachers and curious readers alike, it weaves together the basic principles of wealth, production and the forces that shape society, all in clear, everyday language. The author draws on a long teaching career to present the subject as a practical tool for improving lives, rather than an abstract academic exercise.

The book focuses on the most relevant topics for everyday understanding: the mechanics of production, the division of labour, the roles of capital and labour, the emergence of trade unions, and the dynamics of commercial crises. By linking these concepts to familiar examples, it shows how economic knowledge can help prevent social ills such as strikes, destitution and misguided charity. Listeners will come away with a solid foundation for further study or for sharing these ideas in their own communities.