E. E. Slutsky: Mathematical Statistician, Economist, and Political Economist?

Abstract

Stephen Stigler's JHET article, “Statisticians and the History of Economics,” rightly suggested that more attention should be given to analyzing the contributions of statisticians in the development of economic theory. It also asked in passing whether E. E. Slutsky should best be regarded as a mathematical statistician oran economist, Stiglerhimself opting forthe former characterization (Stigler 2002, p. 159). This seemingly innocuous question opens up a lively and interesting range of issues, one to which this historian would like to make a small contribution from both a “Russian studies” and a “history of ideas” viewpoint.