The comparative approach as a professional engagement tool in the works of Israel Kirzner

Abstract

This article shows the existence of a special argumentative style that permeates the work of Israel Kirzner, here called "comparative approach". Although this method is not exclusive to the author, the attention is drawn to the particularity that this form of dialogue has a common place in Kirzner’s work. This is verified by the preliminary and recurring rescue of other theoretical approaches to a theme before Kirzner passed his own assessment. The article proposes to interpret this positioning as a professional engagement initiative, considering the context of resurgence of the Austrian School in the 1970’s, a movement that Kirzner had as one of its leaders. In this reading, the Kirzner's effort to systematically refer to other theoretical approaches can be understood as a way of approaching them and their audience, expanding the reach of Austrianism. This reflects Kirzner's quest to clarify and disseminate Austrian theory, an indicative of his engagement among economists.