Heuristic Potential of Political Economy of Socialism in the 21st Century

Abstract

The author tries to distinguish the main achievements of political economy of socialism, its contribution to modern economic theory and potential in analysis of post-industrial society. To his opinion political economy of socialism is useful for understanding the nature of "real socialism" (i.e. economic system that was really functioning in the USSR and socialist countries), future post-capitalist economic systems and transitional economy. Moreover, this discipline can be helpful in overcoming the market-oriented paradigm dominating now in economic theory.