The world improvement plans of Fritz Schumacher

Abstract

This article approaches the centenary of the birth of E. F. (‘Fritz’) Schumacher with a contemporary question in mind. How do academic economists create an impact with their work and how can that be increased? It examines, in the case of Schumacher, various sources that could influence the impact that an economist makes. They include family background, education, professional formation, moral values, the underlying vision, the practical proposals put forward, contacts and networking, and the institutions built to ensure an intellectual legacy. Schumacher's career was that of a late developer—his many early failures being followed by the spectacular success of Small is Beautiful (1973). The two-stage pattern testifies to the importance of individual characteristics in making an impact and these many not be amenable to institutional policies.

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