Marc-William Palen

Marc-William Palen, a historian at the University of Exeter and author of Pax Economica, delves into the evolution of left-wing visions of free trade from the 19th century to the Cold War. He highlights key movements like the Anti-Corn Law League and figures such as Marx. The conversation reveals how feminist ideologies and Christian pacifism intersected with economic principles, while also critiquing protectionist policies. Palen advocates for a reexamination of leftist approaches to globalization, stressing their relevance in today's economic debates.

Discover the forgotten history of left-wing support for free trade and anti-imperialism. Uncover the roots of economic cosmopolitanism and the potential repercussions of turning away from free trade. Explore figures like Jane Adams and Cordell Hull in shaping global economic ideologies. Delve into the historical shifts from free trade to protectionism and the challenges faced in maintaining a unified approach against modern trends.