He divided economics into "positive economy" (the study of what is, and the way the economy works), "normative economy" (the study of what should be), and the "art of economics" (applied economics). The art of economics relates the lessons learned in positive economics to the normative goals determined in normative economics. He tried to synthesise deductive and inductive reasoning as a solution to the "Methodenstreit". His main works were:
He represented Cambridge University six times in the annual chess match against Oxford University and is the joint holder of the record for most appearances on either side.[4]
He outlived his elder son by three years; he died in Cambridge, aged 97.