Ioana Negru

Reflections on pluralism in economics

Pluralism is one of the most problematic concepts in the social sciences. Despite a bourgeoning debate on the nature of pluralism and its relevance for economics, consideration of pluralism within economics has a short history. This paper identifies the key stages in the development of the pluralism debate within economics. This paper identifies developments in the philosophy of science, the disarray in economic methodology, the consequent pleas for tolerance in economics, and the wider orthodoxy-heterodoxy debate as key factors in shaping the nature and direction of the pluralism debate. The paper concludes with some reflections on the impact of the pluralism debate for economic pedagogy, and postulates returning to the philosophy of science and epistemology as a fruitful direction for discussing and implementing pluralism in economics.

Plurality to pluralism in economics pedagogy: the role of critical thinking

The current financial crisis has prompted a widespread critique of existing conventional economics and deep dissatisfaction with varying aspects regarding the economics profession including teaching techniques. Of course, these criticisms are not new (see Colander and Klamer, 1987; Krueger et al., 1991; Colander, 1998). A reform of teaching practices within economics needs to be pre-requisited on intellectual diversity and a curriculum that is characterised by both plurality and reflexive, critical skills. As an orientation, pluralism is essential for becoming a critical and reflexive thinker. This paper argues that although plurality can be perceived as a first step in achieving pluralism in economics, economists – both mainstream and heterodox – need to go beyond a plurality of perspectives in order to concentrate on developing critical and reflexive skills amongst their students.