A abordagem histórica de Georg Friedrich List

Abstract

This dissertation aims to demonstrate the importance of George Friedrich List for the development of an economic theory based on a critical analysis of the history of various economic powers. However, his contribution transcends economics, having significant implications for the Philosophy of History and Political Philosophy. List challenges the notion of a universal model of economic progress and argues that national development must be understood in light of historical and cultural specificities. The first section of the study examines the Italian cities, the Hanseatic League, and England, identifying the factors that led to their growth and the reasons for the decline of the Italian cities and the Hanseatic League. Regarding the Italian cities, List points to the lack of national unity, the weakening of the patriotic aristocracy, and the rise of stronger nations as causes of their decline. The Hanseatic League, in turn, lost its dominance due to the absence of national spirit, the loss of commercial privileges, and the lack of investment in internal development, such as agriculture and industry. Concerning England, List highlights how the country became a commercial power by analyzing its relations with economic partners and its policies of protection and industrial strengthening. The second section examines the main aspects of List's thought, addressing the role of the state in national development, the relationship between internal and external trade, the connection between the countryside and the city, and the importance of protectionism in safeguarding emerging industries. The dissertation concludes with a reflection on the necessary characteristics for a nation's development, highlighting the philosophical implications of List’s thought for contemporary debates on globalization, economic sovereignty, social justice and the reality of Brazil.