Value : The Representation of Labour in Capitalism

Author: Elson, Professor Diane (University of Essex UK)

Society & social sciences

Published on 21 August 2015 by Verso Books as part of 'the Radical Thinkers' series.

This influential collection of essays focuses on the elusive concept of 'value,' and aims to answer the question 'Why is Marx's theory of value so important?' Aboo Aumeeruddy and Ramon Tortajada introduce the key interpretive debates surrounding 'value form,' leading to seminal essays by Jairus Banaji and Chris Arthur. The labour theory of value is interrogated by Geoffrey Kay and Athar Hussain, and Diane Elson concludes with an argument for the importance of Marx's 'Value Theory of Labour.' These incisive and erudite texts provide a crucial introduction to Marxist political economy, as well as advancing critical arguments for those already well versed in the field.