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Critical realism, methodological pluralism, and ecological economics

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  • Norgaard, Richard B.

Abstract

Critical realism is an especially inappropriate philosophical basis for ecological economics since it has developed entirely within the social sciences, relies on transcendentalism as a way of understanding reality, and ignores natural realities and the role of technology. The philosophy of methodological pluralism continues to inform and represent ecological economics well.

Suggested Citation

  • Norgaard, Richard B., 2025. "Critical realism, methodological pluralism, and ecological economics," Ecological Economics, Elsevier, vol. 233(C).
    • Handle: RePEc:eee:ecolec:v:233:y:2025:i:c:s0921800925000643
    DOI: 10.1016/j.ecolecon.2025.108581
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    References listed on IDEAS

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    1. Spash, Clive L., 2013. "The shallow or the deep ecological economics movement?," Ecological Economics, Elsevier, vol. 93(C), pages 351-362.
    2. Norgaard, Richard B., 2004. "Learning and knowing collectively," Ecological Economics, Elsevier, vol. 49(2), pages 231-241, June.
    3. Goddard, Jessica J. & Kallis, Giorgos & Norgaard, Richard B., 2019. "Keeping multiple antennae up: Coevolutionary foundations for methodological pluralism," Ecological Economics, Elsevier, vol. 165(C), pages 1-1.
    4. Spash, Clive L., 2020. "A tale of three paradigms: Realising the revolutionary potential of ecological economics," Ecological Economics, Elsevier, vol. 169(C).
    5. Norgaard, Richard B., 1989. "The case for methodological pluralism," Ecological Economics, Elsevier, vol. 1(1), pages 37-57, February.
    6. Spash, Clive L., 2012. "New foundations for ecological economics," Ecological Economics, Elsevier, vol. 77(C), pages 36-47.
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    Keywords

    Critical Realism; Methodological Pluralism;

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