In the 'sixties, the reproduction model was often the subject of
analysis and discussion in economic literat- ure. Discussion was by
criticism of the neo-classical concept of capital as well as by a
renewed interest in the labour theory of value. Criticism of the use of
a homogeneous concept of capital resulted in the re- switching debate as
it is called, where the positing of problems is limited, and the results
are ultimately meagre. The renewed interest in the labour theory of
value opened interesting perspectives, at least if one rejects the
rather fruitless debate on Marx's transform- ation problem, as it is
called. The main question then is: are the prices determined objectively
or do factors of demand also play an essential role? This book by Dr.
van Schaik deals with this famous theme. The various models with single
and joint reproduction are classified and analysed with great
surveyability. The consistent distinction between quantity and price
systems, the appropriate use of the matrix notation and the careful
definition of concepts, guarantee the accessibility to a difficult
matter. Models of Leontief, the Austrian School, Burmeister-Dobell and
others appear as special cases of the more general Von Neumann-Sraffa
structure. In view of the often fragmentary handling of jOint production
in economic literature and of the concept of fixed capital which is
linked to it, Dr. van Schaik's book fulfils a long-felt want.
