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Situational logic in social science inquiry: From economics to criminology

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  • Paul Knepper

Abstract

Karl R. Popper proposed that the method of explanation in economics, or situational logic, should become the general model for analyses across the social sciences. This article makes good Popper's proposal by extending situational logic to a social problem outside the traditional scope of economics: crime. Specifically, the discussion reviews models developed by economist Gary S. Becker and criminologist Ronald V. Clarke. Becker's ‘economic approach’ to crime incorporates essential features of situational logic. Clarke's ‘situational crime prevention’ offers an even better demonstration; it explicitly incorporates the ideas of piecemeal social engineering and unintended social repercussions. Popper took situational logic from Menger and the Austrians, making this emerging area of criminology an extension of Austrian economics. Copyright Springer Science+Business Media, LLC 2007

Suggested Citation

  • Paul Knepper, 2007. "Situational logic in social science inquiry: From economics to criminology," The Review of Austrian Economics, Springer;Society for the Development of Austrian Economics, vol. 20(1), pages 25-41, March.
  • Handle: RePEc:kap:revaec:v:20:y:2007:i:1:p:25-41
    DOI: 10.1007/s11138-006-0006-9
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    4. Deborah A. Redman, 1994. "Karl Popper’s Theory of Science and Econometrics: The Rise and Decline of Social Engineering," Journal of Economic Issues, Taylor & Francis Journals, vol. 28(1), pages 67-99, March.
    5. Peter J. Boettke (ed.), 1994. "The Elgar Companion to Austrian Economics," Books, Edward Elgar Publishing, number 53.
    6. Oi, Walter Y, 1998. "Gary Becker Expanding the Scope of Economics," Economic Inquiry, Western Economic Association International, vol. 36(3), pages 444-446, July.
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