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The ideas of Luigi Einaudi as a farmer shaped Italian and European liberalism, contributing to economic development and national growth. Today, rediscovering that pragmatic and innovative vision is more necessary than ever to revitalize the agricultural and food production sector. Adapting the Einaudian model to global challenges such as food security, public health, and sustainability means promoting a competitive, resilient agriculture capable of generating opportunities and prosperity for citizens.

FARMER, ENTREPRENEUR, INNOVATOR

Luigi Einaudi is known as President of the Republic, Governor of the Bank of Italy, and one of Italy’s leading liberal thinkers. Yet few know that the core of his thought was born from his experience as a young agricultural entrepreneur.

Before becoming a public figure, Einaudi chose to dedicate himself to the land, experimenting firsthand with the ideas that would later define contemporary liberalism.

WHY IT MATTERS

Rediscovering Einaudi’s agricultural experience is essential to relaunch a strategic sector like agriculture and food production. Now more than ever, this field needs the push of liberal thought to face global challenges with pragmatism, innovation, and competitiveness.

Food security is a global priority, fundamental for ensuring economic and political stability, international strength, and public health. Einaudi reminds us that innovative, efficient, and competitive agriculture is the foundation of a prosperous and long-lasting society.

In a global context marked by food crises, inflation, and geopolitical instability, agriculture becomes once again the cornerstone for building a balanced future. Investing in agriculture today is not just an economic choice, but a political strategy for collective well-being.

FROM THE LAND TO EOCNOMIC THOUGHT

At only 23 years old, fresh out of university, Einaudi bought a farmstead in the Langhe with a loan. It wasn’t an impulsive act, but a considered and pragmatic choice, guided by the experimental method: observe, experiment, and draw concrete conclusions. The agrarian crisis of the time offered an opportunity for those willing to invest in low-cost land.

THE PRINCIPLES OF AGRICULTURAL LIBERALISM

Einaudi’s farming experience shaped his economic vision:

• Freedom and competition: the agricultural market had to be free, without protectionist policies that stifled innovation.
• Credit as investment: access to fair loans was essential to modernize agriculture and avoid unproductive debt.
• Innovation and productivity: experimenting with new techniques and optimizing land use were the means to transform small plots into sustainable and competitive enterprises.
• Education and responsibility: educating farmers was key to fostering emancipation and economic growth.
• Private property: a tool of individual freedom and social progress, opposed to the privileges of large landowners.
• Agriculture as a moral act: working the land was not just economic activity but a moral one, fostering responsibility and encouraging innovation.
• Against protectionism: opposing protectionism and welfare dependency, advocating instead for agricultural modernization as the path to prosperity and freedom.

THE LEGACY OF A CONCRET VISION

Einaudi’s liberal approach to agriculture remains relevant today, in a context where the agri-food sector is challenged by economic instability, climate change, and geopolitical crises. Einaudi teaches us that agriculture is not just production – it is an exercise in economic freedom and social responsibility.

THE CHALLENGES AHED

• Productive specialization: Italy is not self-sufficient in food; it must specialize in high-quality products for export and open up to imports of goods not locally replicable.
• Supply chain efficiency: Italian supply chains are too long and complex; they must be shortened to improve efficiency and competitiveness.
• A new model of competition: competition among small farmers, once beneficial, must be rethought to make the sector globally competitive.
• Productivity and resilience: strategic goals to be achieved through a modern agricultural policy with investments in regenerative and innovative agriculture.
• Enhancement of “Made in Italy”: improving communication about the value of Italian products—not just as gastronomic excellence, but as fundamental elements of a balanced diet.
• Culture of conscious consumption: Europeans must be the first to understand and value Italy’s food heritage, investing in Made in Italy products.

WHAT TO DO

Rediscovering Einaudi’s thought means addressing global challenges with pragmatism and innovation, focusing on a short, efficient supply chain open to markets. Producing is not enough: we must innovate, educate, and promote a culture of quality.

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