Giuseppe Palmieri (economist)

Giuseppe Palmieri (1721 – 1793) was an Italian economist and statesman, a significant figure in the Neapolitan Enlightenment. He is primarily remembered for his contributions to economic thought and his advocacy for reforms in the Kingdom of Naples.

Palmieri's most influential work is "Riflessioni sulla pubblica felicità relativamente al Regno di Napoli" (Reflections on Public Happiness with Respect to the Kingdom of Naples), published in 1787. In this treatise, he analyzed the economic conditions of Naples, highlighting issues such as feudalism, excessive taxation, and restrictions on trade. He argued that these factors hindered economic progress and prevented the population from achieving a state of "public happiness," which he defined as widespread prosperity and well-being.

Palmieri advocated for a series of liberalizing reforms. These included:

• The abolition of feudal privileges: He believed that the feudal system concentrated wealth and power in the hands of a few, stifling economic initiative and preventing social mobility.
• Tax reform: Palmieri proposed a more equitable and efficient tax system that would reduce the burden on the poor and promote investment.
• Free trade: He championed the removal of internal tariffs and other barriers to trade, arguing that this would foster competition and increase economic activity.
• Improved agriculture: Palmieri emphasized the importance of agricultural development, calling for investment in infrastructure and the adoption of modern farming techniques.

In addition to his writings, Palmieri served in various government positions in Naples, including membership of the Supreme Council of Finance. These roles allowed him to implement some of his proposed reforms, although he often faced resistance from entrenched interests. His work influenced subsequent generations of Neapolitan reformers and economists and contributed to the broader debate about economic development and social progress in 18th-century Europe. His economic philosophy is generally considered part of the broader school of Italian mercantilism, with a focus on improving domestic productivity and trade.