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Economics in nouns and verbs

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  • Arthur, W. Brian

Abstract

Standard economic theory uses mathematics as its main means of understanding, and this brings clarity of reasoning and logical power. But there is a drawback: algebraic mathematics restricts economic modeling to what can be expressed only in quantitative nouns, and this forces theory to leave out matters to do with process, formation, adjustment, and creation—matters to do with nonequilibrium. For these we need a different means of understanding, one that allows verbs as well as nouns. Algorithmic expression is such a means. It allows verbs—processes—as well as nouns—objects and quantities. It allows fuller description in economics, and can include heterogeneity of agents, actions as well as objects, and realistic models of behavior in ill-defined situations. The world that algorithms reveal is action-based as well as object-based, organic, possibly ever-changing, and not fully knowable. But it is strangely and wonderfully alive.

Suggested Citation

  • Arthur, W. Brian, 2023. "Economics in nouns and verbs," Journal of Economic Behavior & Organization, Elsevier, vol. 205(C), pages 638-647.
    • Handle: RePEc:eee:jeborg:v:205:y:2023:i:c:p:638-647
    DOI: 10.1016/j.jebo.2022.10.036
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    References listed on IDEAS

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    Cited by:

    1. Félix-Fernando Muñoz, 2024. "The coevolution of technology, markets, and culture: the challenging case of AI," Review of Evolutionary Political Economy, Springer, vol. 5(3), pages 511-533, October.

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    More about this item

    Keywords

    Economic theory; Mathematics in economics; Algorithms; Complexity economics; Computational economics;
    All these keywords.

    JEL classification:

    • B41 - Schools of Economic Thought and Methodology - - Economic Methodology - - - Economic Methodology
    • B59 - Schools of Economic Thought and Methodology - - Current Heterodox Approaches - - - Other
    • C02 - Mathematical and Quantitative Methods - - General - - - Mathematical Economics

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