The book, against the background of an autobiographical narrative, reveals the author's views on the 50-year history of the development of Russian economic science and the national economy, a gallery of portraits of famous scientists and politicians is given. Particular attention is paid to the development of the economic and mathematical scientific direction, the formation of the CEMI RAS, the creation of the theory of SOFE. The author reflects on ways to further develop economic theory and practice on the threshold of the new millennium.