ABSTRACT

Philosophy of Economics: A Contemporary Introduction is the first systematic textbook in the philosophy of economics. It introduces the epistemological, metaphysical and ethical problems that arise in economics, and presents detailed discussions of the solutions that have been offered.

Throughout, philosophical issues are illustrated by and analysed in the context of concrete cases drawn from contemporary economics, the history of economic ideas, and actual economic events. This demonstrates the relevance of philosophy of economics both for the science of economics and for the economy.

This text will provide an excellent introduction to the philosophy of economics for students and interested general readers alike.

part I|14 pages

Interpreting Economic Theory

chapter 2|12 pages

Explaining Economic Phenomena

part IA|55 pages

Rationality

chapter 3|25 pages

Rational-Choice Theory

chapter 4|28 pages

Game Theory

part IB|34 pages

Causality

chapter 5|16 pages

Causation and Causal Tendencies

chapter 6|16 pages

Mechanisms

part IC|26 pages

Models

chapter 7|24 pages

Models, Idealization, Explanation

part II|66 pages

Methodology

chapter 8|16 pages

Measurement

chapter 9|13 pages

Econometrics

chapter 10|21 pages

Experiments

chapter 11|14 pages

Evidence-Based Policy

part III|94 pages

Ethics

chapter 12|19 pages

Welfare and Well-Being

chapter 13|24 pages

Markets and Morals

chapter 14|24 pages

Inequality and Distributive Justice

chapter 15|25 pages

Behavioral Economics and Nudge