Volume One analyses the intellectual sources and evolution of Marx's critique of political economy leading up the writing of the main Capital manuscripts (1844-1860).

The volume:

* Provides a clear illustration of the contents of the texts in a way that enables readers to understand the intellectual influences on Marx

* Clarifies Marx's own view of what he was trying to achieve through his critique of political economy

* The themes of value, income distribution and the law of motion of capitalism are traced to their origins.