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The Whimsical Science

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  • Richard A. Levins

Abstract

Three interviews, fictitious in varying degrees, are used to explore some fundamental questions of economic methodology. The role of mathematics in economic reasoning, the question of truth in assumptions, and whether rigorous arguments will necessarily lead to important results are examined. The use of models in science is usually justified on grounds of prediction or explanation. The general theme of this paper is that many mathematical models in economics fail on both criteria.

Suggested Citation

  • Richard A. Levins, 1992. "The Whimsical Science," Review of Agricultural Economics, Agricultural and Applied Economics Association, vol. 14(1), pages 139-151.
    • Handle: RePEc:oup:revage:v:14:y:1992:i:1:p:139-151.
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    File URL: http://hdl.handle.net/10.2307/1349614
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    Cited by:

    1. Parcell, Joe L. & Kastens, Terry L. & Dhuyvetter, Kevin C. & Schroeder, Ted C., 2000. "Agricultural Economists' Effectiveness in Reporting and Conveying Research Procedures and Results," Agricultural and Resource Economics Review, Cambridge University Press, vol. 29(2), pages 173-182, October.
    2. Ohlmer, Bo & Olson, Kent & Brehmer, Berndt, 1998. "Understanding farmers' decision making processes and improving managerial assistance," Agricultural Economics, Blackwell, vol. 18(3), pages 273-290, May.
    3. Parcell, Joseph L., 2002. "Extending Alone," 2002 Annual meeting, July 28-31, Long Beach, CA 19655, American Agricultural Economics Association (New Name 2008: Agricultural and Applied Economics Association).

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