Routledge Handbook of the Philosophy of Economics

The Routledge Handbook of Philosophy of Economics provides a comprehensive overview of the key topics, problems, and debates at the intersection of philosophical and economic inquiry. It is divided into eight sections and is written by a diverse team of contributors from all over the globe. It is an essential resource for students and researchers in economics and philosophy, as well as those in related fields.

Format: Hardback
Length: 400 pages
Publication date: 01 January 2021
Publisher: Taylor & Francis Ltd

The realm of economics is undeniably intertwined with profound philosophical inquiries, as evidenced by the enduring legacy of philosophical thought in shaping economic concepts and theories. Since the dawn of Western philosophy, philosophers have delved into a multitude of questions that contemporary observers would readily classify as economic in nature. This rich tapestry of philosophical inquiry has contributed to the development of economics as a discipline, fostering a deeper understanding of the complex interplay between human behavior, markets, and societal institutions.

To navigate this intricate intersection, the Routledge Handbook of Philosophy of Economics emerges as a invaluable resource. Compiled by a diverse team of contributors hailing from various corners of the globe, this comprehensive handbook spans 35 chapters, each penned by experts in their respective fields. Organized into eight distinct sections, the Handbook offers a comprehensive exploration of the key topics, problems, and debates that arise at the confluence of philosophical and economic inquiry.

Section I, titled "Rationality," delves into the fundamental principles governing human decision-making and behavior. It examines the nature of rationality, the role of incentives, and the limitations of human cognition in shaping economic outcomes. Section II, "Cooperation and Interaction," explores the dynamics of social interactions and collective decision-making processes. It examines the foundations of cooperation, the emergence of social norms, and the mechanisms that facilitate cooperation and collaboration among individuals and groups.

Section III, "Methodology," examines the philosophical foundations of economic research and analysis. It explores the philosophical assumptions underlying different economic methodologies, such as positivism, rational choice theory, and behavioral economics. Section IV, "Values," examines the ethical and moral dimensions of economic decision-making and policy. It explores the role of values in shaping economic behavior, the distribution of wealth and resources, and the ethical challenges associated with market economies.

Section V, "Causality and Explanation," explores the mechanisms that underlie economic phenomena and events. It examines the concept of causality, the role of variables and factors in shaping economic outcomes, and the challenges of explaining complex economic systems. Section VI, "Experimentation and Simulation," examines the use of experimental and simulation methods in economics research. It explores the advantages and limitations of these methods, the ethical considerations involved in conducting economic experiments, and the insights they can provide into economic phenomena.

Section VII, "Evidence," examines the role of evidence in shaping economic policy and decision-making. It explores the types of evidence used in economic analysis, the strengths and limitations of different types of evidence, and the challenges of evaluating the validity and reliability of economic evidence. Section VIII, "Policy," examines the philosophical implications of economic policy and regulation. It explores the role of government in shaping economic outcomes, the principles of effective policymaking, and the ethical considerations involved in implementing economic policies.

The Routledge Handbook of Philosophy of Economics is a testament to the interdisciplinary nature of economic inquiry. It serves as a valuable resource for students and researchers in economics, philosophy, political science, sociology, and other related fields. By providing a comprehensive and accessible exploration of the interconnections between philosophical and economic inquiry, the Handbook fosters a deeper understanding of the complex dynamics that shape our economic world.

In conclusion, the realm of economics is intricately linked with profound philosophical inquiries, and the Routledge Handbook of Philosophy of Economics emerges as a crucial resource for navigating this intricate intersection. Comprising 35 chapters by a diverse team of contributors, the Handbook offers a comprehensive exploration of the key topics, problems, and debates at the confluence of philosophical and economic inquiry. Whether you are a student, researcher, or practitioner in economics, philosophy, or related fields, this handbook is an essential tool for deepening your understanding of the complex interplay between human behavior, markets, and societal institutions.

Dimension: 254 x 178 (mm)
ISBN-13: 9781138824201