Essays on Some Unsettled Questions of Political Economy

A collection of essays written in the early 19th century that explores critical issues in political economy. In this work, Mill addresses various foundational questions regarding trade, production, and the distribution of wealth, providing insights into the principles that govern economic interactions between nations. The opening portion of the text serves as a preface, explaining the context and purpose behind the publication of these essays, some of which had not seen public distribution until now. Mill notes the resurgence of interest in political economy debates, particularly due to contemporary controversies within economic discourse. He emphasizes a fundamental thesis regarding the laws of international trade, illustrating that advantages gained through trade arise not just from the act of exchange but from the comparative costs of production between nations. Mill outlines the structure of the chapters to follow, indicating a systematic investigation into the intricacies of economic interactions and the implications of various economic theories. This structured exploration sets the stage for a detailed examination of how consumption impacts production and the broader implications for national wealth.