Pluralism and sustainable development
by Peter Söderbaum
International Journal of Pluralism and Economics Education (IJPEE), Vol. 3, No. 1, 2012

Abstract: University departments of economics have to move from monism to pluralism in the sense of encouraging competing theoretical perspectives. The tension between monism and pluralism is not limited to economics paradigms but also concerns theory of science and ideological orientation. It is argued that dominant theory of science (positivism), dominant paradigm in economics (neoclassical) and dominant ideological orientation (neo-liberalism) together largely explain the institutions that are dominant in present society. Two arguments for pluralism in economics are stressed; it is not realistic to expect one paradigm to be the best for all purposes. The neoclassical perspective was developed for specific purposes and is insufficient for instance in relation to sustainability issues. In addition to the 'purpose' argument, there is an 'ideology-democracy' argument for pluralism. Each theoretical perspective in economics is specific not only in scientific terms but also in ideological terms. The present close to monopoly position of neoclassical economics at departments of economics limits the scope of economics research and education ideologically in a way that should not be accepted in a democratic society.

Online publication date: Sat, 16-Aug-2014

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