The Manhattan Institute is currently gathering nominations for a new Hayek Prize which will honor the book published within the past two years that best reflects Hayek’s vision of economic and individual liberty.

The Hayek Prize was conceived and funded by Manhattan Institute trustee Tom Smith. The purpose of the award is to recognize the long running influence of The Road to Serfdom, written by Hayek in 1944 at the high tide of central planning and socialism, and to encourage other scholars to follow his example. The winner of the Hayek Prize will be given a $20,000 cash award and asked to deliver our annual Hayek Lecture in New York City later this year.

The criteria for the Hayek Prize are intentionally vague in the hope that we will solicit a range of recommendations. Books do not have to be focused on economics per se but should broadly advance Hayek’s classically liberal economic and political views rather than focus narrowly on a particular issue such as school choice or health care.

If you know of a book that you believe might deserve consideration for our Hayek Prize please send the title, author, and a brief description to Charles Sahm, director of special projects, at the Manhattan Institute. Nominations are due by Friday, April 18, 2008. The Hayek Prize selection committee will review all nominations and select a finalist later this spring.

Please don’t hesitate to contact Charles Sahm with any questions. We look forward to receiving your nominations.

PAST HAYEK LECTURES