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Economic Methodology Today: a Review of Major Contributions

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  • Boldyrev, I.

    (National Research University Higher School of Economics, Moscow, Russia)

Abstract

This review article considers the state of the art in the modern economic methodology. The structure of this branch of knowledge is briefly described, as well as its institutional organization. We also carry out a substantial classification of various problems and fields of research. We propose to distinguish two basic perspectives which will determine the situation in the field in future: logical-cognitivist and social-constructivist. It is shown, why we consider the latter perspective to be more interesting and promising one. We also examine in detail advantages and shortcomings of normative methodology which is supposed to set standards for a scientific research in economic theory.

Suggested Citation

  • Boldyrev, I., 2011. "Economic Methodology Today: a Review of Major Contributions," Journal of the New Economic Association, New Economic Association, issue 9, pages 47-70.
    • Handle: RePEc:nea:journl:y:2011:i:9:p:47-70
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    More about this item

    Keywords

    normative and positive economic methodology; philosophy of economics; models; rationality; interdisciplinarity;
    All these keywords.

    JEL classification:

    • A11 - General Economics and Teaching - - General Economics - - - Role of Economics; Role of Economists
    • A12 - General Economics and Teaching - - General Economics - - - Relation of Economics to Other Disciplines
    • A14 - General Economics and Teaching - - General Economics - - - Sociology of Economics
    • B4 - Schools of Economic Thought and Methodology - - Economic Methodology

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