Norman Angell

Norman Angell (26 December 1872 – 7 October 1967) was a British economist, author, and politician, best known for his influential book The Great Illusion (1910). Angell argued that the economic interdependence of nations made war futile and counterproductive, a thesis that gained significant attention in the years leading up to World War I.

Early Life and Education

Norman Angell was born in Holbeach, Lincolnshire, England. He was educated in France, where he attended the Lycée de St. Omer and the University of Geneva. Angell's early exposure to different cultures and political systems influenced his later work on international relations and peace.

Career

Angell began his career as a journalist, working in the United States for several years. He returned to Europe and became the editor of the Paris edition of the Daily Mail. His experiences as a journalist informed his views on international politics and economics.

The Great Illusion

In 1910, Angell published The Great Illusion, a book that challenged the prevailing notions of militarism and nationalism. He argued that the interconnectedness of global economies made war irrational, as the economic losses would outweigh any potential gains. The book was widely read and translated into multiple languages, influencing both public opinion and policymakers.

Political Involvement

Angell was actively involved in politics, serving as a member of the Labour Party. He was elected to the House of Commons in 1929, representing the constituency of Bradford North.

Nobel Peace Prize

In 1933, Norman Angell was awarded the Nobel Peace Prize for his efforts to promote peace and understanding among nations. His work emphasized the importance of economic cooperation and the dangers of militarism.

Legacy

Angell's ideas on the futility of war and the benefits of economic interdependence continue to be relevant in discussions of international relations. His work laid the groundwork for later theories on globalization and peace economics.

Also see

• The Great Illusion
• Nobel Peace Prize
• Labour Party (UK)
• Economic interdependence
• International relations