Markets and Society: the Life and Thought of Karl Polanyi

Karl Polanyi started a revolution in economic anthropology when he argued, in The Great Transformation and subsequent books, that the modern market is a modern invention, and not a natural growth from primordial roots, as the liberal tradition had supposed.  This five-hour series about him was first broadcast on Ideas in 2005.  Using readings from Polanyi's work, the reminiscences of family and friends, and the comments of contemporary Polanyi scholars, it traces his life and thought from his childhood in 19th century Budapest to his final days in southern Ontario.  A final programme examines his contemporary legacy. 

Markets and Society Part 2

Markets and Society Part 3

Markets and Society Part 4

Markets and Society Part 5