From laissez-faire to Soziale Marktwirtschaft: how the role of the state has changed between Liberalism, Neoliberalism and Ordoliberalism

The paper employs an analytical approach to examine the changing role of the state in relation to the economic theories of Liberalism, Neoliberalism and Ordoliberalism. The principal aim is to comprehend the manner in which these economic doctrines have influenced state intervention over time and to evaluate the consequences of these changes. Through a comprehensive examination of the theoretical foundations of the three currents, real-life examples of the implementation of their ideas are analysed, highlighting any divergences from the original theories. The methodology employed involves an examination of texts and works by the principal contributors to each theoretical perspective, with supporting evidence drawn from academic research and pertinent articles. This paper initially presents the liberalist school of thought, which preceded the development of economic science. It then proceeds to analyse one of the most well-known concepts associated with this tradition: laissez-faire. Subsequently, it is analysed the factors that led to the crisis of liberalism and the rise of neo-liberalism, with a focus on the American and Austrian schools. Finally, ordoliberalism is examined, an economic theory that emerged in Germany after the Second World War and contributed to the country's resurgence as a global economic power.

The paper employs an analytical approach to examine the changing role of the state in relation to the economic theories of Liberalism, Neoliberalism and Ordoliberalism. The principal aim is to comprehend the manner in which these economic doctrines have influenced state intervention over time and to evaluate the consequences of these changes. Through a comprehensive examination of the theoretical foundations of the three currents, real-life examples of the implementation of their ideas are analysed. The methodology employed involves an examination of texts and works by the principal contributors to each theoretical perspective, with supporting evidence drawn from academic research and pertinent articles. This paper initially presents the liberalist school of thought, which preceded the development of economic science. It then proceeds to analyse one of the most well-known concepts associated with this tradition: laissez-faire. Subsequently, it is analysed the factors that led to the crisis of liberalism and the rise of neo-liberalism, with a focus on the American and Austrian schools. Finally, ordoliberalism is examined, an economic theory that emerged in Germany after the Second World War and contributed to the country's resurgence as a global economic power.