Where have all the Sraffians gone? A propósito del cincuentenario de Producción de mercancías por medio de mercancías.

Abstract

The publication of Sraffa’s book (1960) had a genuine impact on Economic Theory and was received by non-neoclassic economist with great enthusiasm. Fifty years later, the book’s influence, outwith the History of Economic Thought is practically null. Most “Sraffians” have either passed away leaving no intellectual descendants or have moved in a different direction. The Spanish case is no exception: The book’s influence became noticeable slowly and disappeared quickly. This article will attempt to explain reasons behind the rise and fall of Sraffians ideas in such a short period of time and the implications of this failure for Economic Policy.