The article explores the idea of mercantilism, an old economic theory, and whether it still makes sense today. The researchers suggest that belief in mercantilism depends on how economic and security issues interact in a specific time and place. They argue that uncertainty and insecurity can lead to more support for mercantilist ideas. By looking at British history from the 16th to the 19th century, the researchers aim to understand how beliefs in mercantilism changed over time.