Abstract
The article seeks to interpret theoretical and methodological elements of Wagner’s work with reference to three major conflicts of the time in which the author lived: the theoretical-methodological debate on the existence and relevance of an economic theory that is completely autonomous in relation to other human sciences; the conflict over the formation and level of economic development of a German-speaking country; the “social question” and class conflicts linked to urbanization and industrialization. The author advocated the role of the State as a promoter of economic development and social reform. Wagner developed a sophisticated point of view about the relationship between government and markets, which emphasized the interdependence and coevolution of national states and national economies.
Keywords:
German historical school; Social reform; Adolph Wagner