Sir William Petty (1623–1687) and Baron Janez Vajkard Valvasor (1641–1693)

Comparative Outline

Abstract

The author compares the life and work of W. Petty, the predecessor of English classical political economy, and J.V. Valvasor, polymath from Kranjsko. Even though they lived in different countries and circumstances, and were active in different fields, it is possible to draw certain parallels between them. During their formative years they both went to a Jesuite college and traveled abroad to gain additional knowledge. Later on, in the course of their work, they pursued similar topics (an outline and analysis of the situation in Kranjsko and in Ireland, maps, and technical innovations).