Contending Perspectives in Economics : A Guide to Contemporary Schools of Thought

Now in its second edition, John Harvey's rigorous textbook provides an accessible and engaging introduction to various competing schools of thought in economics. This revised and extended edition will continue to open readers' minds, leading them towards new and productive directions. Chapters study numerous schools of thought including Neoclassical, Marxist, Austrian, Post Keynesian, Institutionalist, New Institutionalist, Feminist and Ecological. Unique features and criticisms of each approach are highlighted through discussions of methodology, world views, popular themes, and current activities. Key features of the second edition include: a brand-new chapter addressing the field of ecological economics extended discussion of the rise of Neoclassicism, along with an investigation of the possible differences between Neoclassical and mainstream economics discussion of recent events in modern monetary theory exploration of contemporary approaches for combating climate change. While primarily aimed at use in undergraduate courses, this broad yet comprehensive guide will no doubt be of value to any scholar wishing to gain a fresh perspective and greater understanding of the variety and breadth of current economic thought. 'This wise and lucid guide to pluralism in economics embodies the values of its cause. Generous, open-minded, fair, accurate and accessible: John Harvey's new book is a fine achievement that every economics major should read.'- James K. Galbraith, The University of Texas at Austin, USJohn Harvey's accessible book provides a non-technical yet rigorous introduction to various schools of thought in economics. Premised on the idea that economic thinking has been stunted by the almost complete rejection of anything outside the mainstream, the author hopes that this volume will open readers'minds and lead them in new and productive directions. In his exploration of Neoclassical, Marxist, Austrian, Post Keynesian, Institutionalist, New Institutionalist and Feminist schools of thought, unique features of each approach are highlighted, complemented by discussions of methodology, world views, popular themes, and current activities. Accurate and impartial, every chapter covering a heterodox school of thought has been vetted by an acknowledged expert in that field. Though written for use in undergraduate courses, this guide will no doubt offer a great deal to any scholar wishing to gain a fresh perspective and greater understanding of the variety and breadth of current economic thinking. "Now in its second edition, John Harvey's rigorous textbook provides an accessible and engaging introduction to various competing schools of thought in economics. This revised and extended edition will continue to open readers' minds, leading them towards new and productive directions. Chapters study numerous schools of thought including Neoclassical, Marxist, Austrian, Post Keynesian, Institutionalist, New Institutionalist, Feminist and Ecological. Unique features and criticisms of each approach are highlighted through discussions of methodology, world views, popular themes, and current activities."-- Page 4 de la couverture