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Teaching economics as though values matter

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  • Erik Angner

Abstract

Economics is permeated with value judgements, and removing them would be neither possible nor desirable. They are consequential, in the sense that they have a sizeable impact on economists’ output. Yet many economists may not even realise they are there. This paper surveys ways in which values influence economic theory and practice and explores some implications for the manner in which economics – especially welfare economics – is taught, practised and communicated. Explicit attention to values needs to be embedded in the teaching of economics at all levels.

Suggested Citation

  • Erik Angner, 2023. "Teaching economics as though values matter," Fiscal Studies, John Wiley & Sons, vol. 44(2), pages 161-169, June.
    • Handle: RePEc:wly:fistud:v:44:y:2023:i:2:p:161-169
    DOI: 10.1111/1475-5890.12336
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    References listed on IDEAS

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    1. Diane Coyle & Mark Fabian & Eric Beinhocker & Tim Besley & Margaret Stevens, 2023. "Is it time to reboot welfare economics? Overview," Fiscal Studies, John Wiley & Sons, vol. 44(2), pages 109-121, June.
    2. Duflo, Esther, 2017. "The Economist as Plumber," CEPR Discussion Papers 11881, Centre for Economic Policy Research.
    3. Esther Duflo, 2017. "Richard T. Ely Lecture: The Economist as Plumber," American Economic Review, American Economic Association, vol. 107(5), pages 1-26, May.
    4. Esther Duflo, 2017. "The Economist as Plumber," NBER Working Papers 23213, National Bureau of Economic Research, Inc.
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    Cited by:

    1. Diane Coyle & Mark Fabian & Eric Beinhocker & Tim Besley & Margaret Stevens, 2023. "Is it time to reboot welfare economics? Overview," Fiscal Studies, John Wiley & Sons, vol. 44(2), pages 109-121, June.

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