Ludwig von Mises Quotes

A collection of quotes by Ludwig von Mises.

Ludwig von Mises (1881-1973) was a prominent economist and social philosopher of the 20th century. Born in Lemberg, Austria-Hungary (now Lviv, Ukraine), he began his academic journey studying law and economics at the University of Vienna. Mises developed a deep interest in monetary theory, praxeology (the study of human action), and the principles of classical liberalism.

Throughout his career, Mises advocated for the free market and individual liberty. He became a leading figure in the Austrian School of economics, emphasizing the importance of subjective value theory and the role of entrepreneurship in driving economic progress. Mises argued fervently against socialist and interventionist economic policies, asserting that only through the freedoms provided by capitalism could societies effectively allocate resources and generate wealth.

Facing political upheavals in Europe due to both World Wars and the rise of totalitarian regimes, Mises left his native Austria in 1934 and eventually settled in the United States. Despite the challenges of adapting to a new language and environment, he continued his scholarly pursuits and became a professor at New York University.

Mises authored several influential works, most notably "Human Action" (1949), a seminal treatise on economics and philosophy. He also played a significant role in the revival of classical liberal thought, inspiring future generations of economists and intellectuals. Ludwig von Mises left a lasting legacy as a champion of free-market economics and individual freedom, shaping economic discourse and paving the way for the Austrian School's enduring influence.