The Systematic Phases of Competition: A Historical and Theoretical Examination

This study provides a systematic examination of the historical and theoretical development of competition, analyzing how it has been shaped within economic thought. Beginning with the mercantilist era, the evolution of competition is examined through the perspectives of Smith and classical economists, Marxist analysis, the neoclassical equilibrium approach, Schumpeter’s innovative competition theory, and strategic approaches. Emphasizing that competition is not merely an abstract model, but an economic phenomenon deeply intertwined with practical applications, the study evaluates the transformation of competition through various theoretical frameworks, offering insights that can serve as a reference for contemporary economic policies.