[OPE-L:7207] [OPE-L:729] Re: Re: Re: Re: Re: Re: Use and abuse of mathematics [OPE
Rakesh Bhandari (bhandari@phoenix.Princeton.EDU)
Tue, 23 Mar 1999 18:30:38 -0500 (EST)
Ajit, I agree that the crucial point is to get at what is distinct about
Marx's abstract labor theory of value vis a vis the classical theory, but I
am glad that you agree that there is a difference here to be understood.
Many don't think so; it is actually widely belived that Marx only tried to
iron out the wrinkles in the classical labor theory of value--that being
the purpose of the opening chapters of *Capital*, not the specification of
the kind of labor and the conditions under which it produced the mysteries
of exchange value.
At any rate, I have found little help from the standard exegetical works
on Marx's work (I won't name names). My understanding has been informed by
Blake's textbook. Other important works include Patrick Murray's, Moishe
Postone's and Fred Moseley's ed. books, as well as the recent International
Journal of Political Economy, ed. OPE participant. Riccardo Bellofiore. I
am sure you know these sources, but anything I would have to say would be
informed by the analyses there.
Yours,
Rakesh
Ethnic Studies
UC Berkeley