This book begins with an in-depth reappraisal of Keynes, the prime architect of modern economics and many-sided genius who towered as a preceptor, economic statesman, institutional architect and progenitor of the IMF and the World Bank. It addresses the core question: In what sense was there a Keynesian Revolution? It also reviews the least known aspects of Keynes as a civil servant, as a social philosopher, and pro bono activist in causes of conscience. The second part comprises assorted essays that analyse significant themes of finance, development and central banking as well as the defining aspects of colonial Indian economic history. It evaluates the mainsprings of economic growth, taking account of the contribution of Arthur Lewis, the Nobel Laureate and evaluates the political economy of aid. It argues the case for a constitutionally independent Federal Reserve Bank of India. It has an archival essay on an American economist, Ralph Whitenack, who figures as modern India's pioneer economic adviser.
It surveys the interface between economics and philosophy, including the economic philosophy of Joan Robinson, the eminent British economist and presents an agenda for inter-disciplinary collaboration.