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Aleksandr ManuilovEconomist and public figure |
Content:
- Alexander Apollanovich Manuilov: Economist and Public Figure
- Early Career and Influence
- Dissertation and Recognition
- Doctoral Thesis and Major Contribution
- University Career and Service
- Political Activism
- Dismissal and Aftermath
- Continued Work
- Major Publications
- "Capitalist Idyll" (1897)
- Legacy
Alexander Apollanovich Manuilov: Economist and Public Figure
Born in 1861, Alexander Apollanovich Manuilov received his secondary education at the Richelieu Gymnasium in Odessa before graduating from the law faculty of Novorossiysk University.
Early Career and Influence
Upon moving to Moscow, Manuilov joined the editorial team of "Russkiye Vedomosti," a publication managed by a society he later became a member of. In 1889, he published articles in "Russkaya Mysl" and "Yurudicheskiy Vestnik" that established his reputation as an economic scholar.
Dissertation and Recognition
In 1895, Manuilov earned his Master's degree in Political Economy and Statistics with a dissertation titled "Land Leasing in Ireland," based on his research at the British Museum and extensive fieldwork. His work highlighted the shortcomings of individual property rights in agricultural settings and advocated for state ownership of land with individual usufruct rights.
Doctoral Thesis and Major Contribution
In 1901, Manuilov obtained his doctorate with a dissertation on "The Concept of Value in Classical Economic Theory." He identified value theory as central to economics, explaining that it underpins the understanding of complex issues such as rent, wages, and interest. He argued that classical theories did not adequately address these issues and proposed further development of value theory based on the labor theory of value.
University Career and Service
After A.I. Chuprov's retirement, Manuilov became a professor at Moscow University. In 1905, he served as assistant rector and later as rector after the university's charter was restored. He was elected a member of the State Council from the Academy of Sciences and universities in 1907.
Political Activism
Manuilov vigorously defended the autonomy of universities against attacks from the government. He opposed the 1906 law that allowed for the forced transition of peasants from communal to private property, arguing that it violated their right to self-determination.
Dismissal and Aftermath
In 1911, after the police banned student gatherings, Manuilov resigned as rector and professor in solidarity with other protesting university officials. This led to his dismissal and the removal of several professors, including himself, from State Council membership. The State Council eventually admitted its error and reinstated his membership in 1914.
Continued Work
Despite the setback, Manuilov continued teaching at the Petrograd Polytechnic Institute, the Shan Yavorsky University, and other institutions. He also remained active in the publication of "Russkiye Vedomosti."
Major Publications
In addition to his dissertations, Manuilov published numerous other works, including:
"Capitalist Idyll" (1897)
"Essays on the Peasant Question" (1904-05)"The Land Question in Russia" (1905)
"Manual for Political Economy Lectures" (1907)
"Political Economy" (1914), a comprehensive textbook notable for its objective approach and coverage of contemporary economic thought.
"Land Leasing in Russia in Economic Perspective" (1903), a study highlighting the significance of leasing in Russian agriculture and the challenges it posed to the rural population.
Legacy
Alexander Apollanovich Manuilov was a prominent economist and public figure who contributed significantly to the understanding of value theory and agrarian issues. His dedication to university autonomy and the well-being of the peasantry left a lasting impact on Russian society.
