First published in 1959, The Keynesian Theory of Economic Development is perhaps the first systematic attempt to apply post-Keynesian dynamic economics to the problems of underdeveloped countries. Professor Kurihara provides a reference book for students of growth theory and some theoretical guidance in industrial planning. He seeks to isolate the significant mechanisms of economic growth in given social cultural conditions, selecting those relations between measurable variables on which the growth of per capita real incomes most depends- to be analysed on assumptions plausible yet simple enough to yield useful results. The book assumes an elementary knowledge of Keynesian and post- Keynesian economics and some experience of elementary mathematical models.

It makes a rigorous analysis of the problem of economic growth in terms of strategic measurable variables so as to assist the practical formation of policy and it gives greater emphasis to analysis than to description, thus departing from the usual method of case study. Professor Kurihara is also concerned that his treatment of various problems of economic development shall always be compatible with the institutions of a free society. This is a must read for students of economics and economic history.