Otto Neurath (1882–1945) was an Austrian-born philosopher of science, sociologist and political economist, and one of the most multi-faceted and creative thinkers in the Vienna Circle. Forced into exile by fascism, he was part of the intellectual exodus from Central Europe. After an adventurous escape to England and internment as an 'enemy alien', he enthusiastically adapted to British culture, working on documentary films and publications for the war effort using the Isotype method of visualization. He treasured the British habit of 'muddling through', and debated planning and economics with fellow Central European émigrés, Friedrich Hayek, Karl Mannheim and Karl Popper. Based on new archival research, this book explores a little-known period of Neurath's rich and fascinating life, weaving together biographical, historical, and philosophical strands that reflect the cross-cultural currents of twentieth-century intellectual history through the lens of Neurath's contribution.

‘Christopher Burke's and Adam Tamas Tuboly's rich and detailed study of Otto Neurath's final years fills a great gap in our understanding of this remarkable philosopher, economist and educationalist.  They let us see Neurath working for Enlightenment ideals like informed self-determination and intersubjective accountability – and hoping to rebuild Europe after the Nazi catastrophe.'

Thomas Uebel - Emeritus Professor of Philosophy, University of Manchester

‘This impressive new book portrays the minutiae of the misadventures of Neurath, and, by doing so, unpacks the apparent contradictions in his many-sided and quite controversial legacy.… I highly recommend this book not just for those who are interested in the life and work of Otto Neurath but also for those who would like to know what it took to stay on-foot in a highly unpredictable and polarized political environment in the twentieth century. The book is a remarkable gem against the background of today’s politically aligned and hopelessly one-sided scholarship. It truly gives a glimpse into the complexities of Neurath’s character as well as his work, and not just during his years in Britain. This high-quality volume has the potential to become the definitive book on the life and work of Otto Neurath for several years to come.’

Gábor István Bíró Source: Journal of the History of Economic Thought