Changing Perspectives in the Theory of Economic Policy

The evolution of the theory of economic policy during the second half of the XX century is analysed. Three periods of its development are outlined. The first is immediately after the World War II and is called "the age of optimism" - age of belief in the advantages of state interference in the economy and growing roles and functions of governments. The second (1960s - 1970s) is the "age of doubt" -years of serious reflection on the potentials of the economic policy based on the latest development of macroeconomics and the diminishing role of the state in the economy. The third stage, which covers the last twenty years of the XX century, is studied in detail. A new trend in the theory of economic policy has emerged, which is related to the development of the New political economy.