The Distribution of Wealth. By John R. Commons. (Mac- millan.)—Professor
Commons lectures on Economies and Social Science in the University of Indiana. Hence, his illustrations are mostly drawn from American sources. To a certain extent this fact modifies his reasoninAs. The productive system of the
State, with its elaborate protective duties, differs materially from our own. But, on the whole, his reasonings will be found of general application. It must be understood that the book is not meant for outside readers. It is addressed to students supposed to be already acquainted with the current theories of economics.
Professor Commons's views are characterised by breadth and freedom, How, for instance, the following would have startled economists of the old school :—" We are right in holding that actors are productive labourers, because they produce something that satisfies a human want." The observations on the right of combination (pp. 75.6) are especially worth noting. A vexed question, "The right of the unemployed to have work furnished by the Government," is discussed on pp. 83-5. It would not be difficult to make objections ; but our present purpose is fulfilled when we commend this volume to students of the subject.
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