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The Sraffa Canon
A Reflection on Sraffa’s Revolution in Economic Theory edited by Ajit Sinha, Palgrave Macmillan, 2021; pp xxv+ 601, ₹14,821 (hardcover).
No revolution in economic theory has been quieter and more explosive than that sparked by the publication of Piero Sraffa’s slim volume Production of Commodities by Means of Commodities, in 1960. Using linear algebra, the author sought no less than to solve conundrums in classical theory, as well as set up a research programme in political economy.
Over time, the economics of Sraffa settled into a rich, thick soup resting in a kitchen presided over by a handful of mostly Italian chefs. Then Ajit Sinha entered and began to stir the pot. His contestation of the culinary skills of the possessors of the Sraffa recipe book continues through this volume which is a collection of insights from the finest international scholars on the subject. A galaxy of 25 stars shines over 18 chapters. The format of each reminded me of my school debates; there is thesis followed by antithesis, concluding with a counter to the counter. The erudition is staggering and a complete appraisal would tax my abilities and the kindness of the editors of this journal. I have done no more than cull out some themes with the associated authors.
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