Title: A critical analysis of the 'neoclassical tradition' and economics education in Turkey

Authors: Sema Yılmaz; Rahmi Deniz Özbay; Rui Alexandre Castanho

Addresses: Department of Economics, Faculty of Economics and Administration Sciences, Yildiz Technical University, Istanbul, Turkey; Advanced Research Centre, European University of Lefke, Lefke, Northern Cyprus, TR-10 Mersin, Turkey ' Department of Economics, Faculty of Business, İstanbul Commerce University, Istanbul, Turkey ' Faculty of Applied Sciences, WSB University, Dąbrowa Górnicza, Poland; College of Business and Economics, University of Johannesburg, Johannesburg, South Africa; Advanced Research Centre, European University of Lefke, Lefke, Northern Cyprus, TR-10 Mersin, Turkey

Abstract: In the field of economics education, neoclassical economics serves as the foundation for Orthodox thought, drawing upon a theoretical and methodological framework that centres around the concept of a 'sovereign power' relationship. This framework informs the traditions and frequently held practices within the field. The term 'dismal science', originally used by Scottish historian Thomas Carlyle in 1849, can be employed as a critique of the intricate, paradoxical, inscrutable, and detached nature of neoclassical economics. Several criticisms have been raised regarding the utilisation of mathematical techniques primarily as an objective rather than a means of elucidating economic phenomena. This study highlights the significant issue arising from an economics education that lacks methodology and disregards interdisciplinary engagement with other social sciences, particularly under the dominance of neoclassical economics. It demonstrates that the detachment from reality is not only prevalent in Turkey but also observed in many other parts of the world.

Keywords: neoclassical economics; economics education; orthodox thought; sovereign power relationship; dismal science; criticisms; mathematical techniques; social and historical dimensions; perfect competition; interdisciplinary engagement; Turkey.

DOI: 10.1504/IJEED.2025.143610

International Journal of Education Economics and Development, 2025 Vol.16 No.1/2, pp.120 - 133

Received: 30 Aug 2023
Accepted: 11 Dec 2023
Published online: 02 Jan 2025 *

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