Paradigms for structural growth and development in Italy: Pasquale Saraceno’s contribution to the theory and practice of economic policy

This paper wants to better delineate, in the interweaving of facts and theories, the Italian debate on economic growth policies and on the consolidation of a mixed economy. The identification and analysis of diverse phases, allow us to show that the theme of structural growth and economic development covers a broad temporal spectrum and reveals different positions on State capitalism. The focus on Pasquale Saraceno (1903-1991), who treaded across various phases, help us to examine the role of public companies in Italy’s post-WWII economic growth. He contributed in an important way to the emergence of a state-led sector of the Italian economy and provided significant insights on the role of the State in the development process. He also played a key role in shaping Italian economic policy in the post-WWII period.