On 6/1/07, David B. Shemano <[EMAIL PROTECTED]> wrote:
Perhaps this is a really naive question, since I have absolutely no connection to academia and last took an econ course in the mid-1980s, but isn't the dominance of neoclassical thinking in economics departments partially explainable by the fact that those who disagree with the underlying assumptions find it easier to set up shop across the quad in the sociology department? <
I studied a bit of sociology in college (several decades ago!) and the field lacks the theoretical certainty that helps make NC economics so popular. (I don't think anything has changed.) The field centers on its subject matters rather than sharing a general method of inquiry, except the application of statistical methods.
Wouldn't a "neoclassical" sociologist have the same complaints about sociology departments and journals and you all do about economics departments and journals?<
no. there's a rational choice version of sociological theory. and there's no hegemonic theory that keeps alternative theories down the way NC economics does. (Years ago, the structural functionalism of Talcott Parsons played this role, but not anymore.) -- Jim Devine / "Segui il tuo corso, e lascia dir le genti." (Go your own way and let people talk.) -- Karl, paraphrasing Dante.
