Human Nature in Modern Economics: Structure, Change and Perspectives

Human Nature in Modern Economics provides a precise definition of human nature in economics and develops tools for analyzing it based on anthropological and psychological foundations. The book argues that the concept of human nature determines our thinking about the economy and economics, including fundamental methodologies, methods, and theories. It demonstrates that the normative functions of human nature may affect the economic reality and that the differences between various economic schools result from their different assumptions about human nature. The book is a significant addition to the literature on the history of economic thought, heterodox economics, economic theory, and economic methodology.

Format: Paperback / softback
Length: 264 pages
Publication date: 29 January 2024
Publisher: Taylor & Francis Ltd

Human Nature in Modern Economics provides a comprehensive and insightful definition of the concept of human nature in economics, a topic that has been notably lacking in the theoretical and methodological literature. This book offers valuable tools for analyzing human nature by constructing a meta-model, which is grounded in anthropological and psychological foundations. This model enables the comparison of anthropological assumptions made in economic theories, shedding light on their potential impact on economic reality.

The chapters in the book argue that the concept of human nature shapes our understanding of the economy and economics, encompassing fundamental methodologies, methods, and theories. Consequently, the differences between various economic schools arise from their distinct assumptions regarding human nature. These evolving perspectives on human nature help explain the development of both orthodox (mainstream) and heterodox economics.

This book is a significant contribution to the literature on the history of economic thought, heterodox economics, economic theory, and economic methodology. It serves as a valuable resource for students, complementing standard textbooks by providing a comprehensive explanation of the current state of economics, particularly in its heterodox branches. It also empowers scholars to explore the significance of their assumptions about human nature and its potential influence on their research processes.

Weight: 453g
Dimension: 234 x 156 (mm)
ISBN-13: 9781032073453