Abstract:

The general ideas of both Karl Marx and Karl Polanyi with respect to the “birth” of capitalism are presented and critically discussed. Polanyi’s actuality cannot only be seen in his abandonment of “historical determination” but also in his ethically grounded search for a realistic and humane concept of liberty in all spheres, including political system and society. Although his concept of a humane society is more oriented towards concrete problems of transition than Marx’s refusal to “prescribe recipes for future’s kitchen”, still lots of questions have to be analyzed in Polanyi’s conception. The basic actuality of his thought is also confirmed by the recent global finance and real estate crisis since 2008.