Objectives and competences
In this course students:
1. Enhance their understanding of the status and characteristics of economics as a science.
2. Gain insight into the chronological and conceptual development in the philosophy of science for economics.
Content (Syllabus outline)
1. The received view of science
2. Methodologies of positive economics
3. Popper´s logic of discovery
4. Approach of Kuhn and Lakatos
5. Sociology of scientific knowledge
6. Rhetoric, postmodernism, pluralism
7. Value judgments in economics
8. Issues in theoretical, methodological development of economic analysis
Learning and teaching methods
lectures;
- discussion of the seminar papers;
- teachers' consultations;
- self study with literature
Intended learning outcomes - knowledge and understanding
Development of Knowledge and Understanding
The learner:
? Knowledge base: has great depth and systematic understanding of nature of the assumptions, types of reasoning and forms of explanations employed in economic science.
? Ethical issues: can analyse the ethical dilemmas by solving economic issues at the scientific level.
? Disciplinary methodologies: has a comprehensive understanding of chronological and conceptual development of economic methodology.
Cognitive and Intellectual Skills
The learner:
? Analysis: with critical awareness, can undertake analysis, managing complexity, incompleteness of data or contradictions in the areas of economics.
? Synthesis: can synthesize new approaches and criteria by forming scientific explanation.
? Application: can act independently and with originality in problem solving and is able to evaluate the role of explanations in economics.
Key / Transferable Skills
The learner:
? Group working: can lead/work effectively with group, can clarify tasks and manage the capacities of group members.
? Learning resources: is able to use full range of learning resources.
? Management of information: upgrades the ability to become an autonomous learner and is able to undertake research tasks.
? Autonomy: is independent and self-critical as learner; guides and supports the learning of others and can manage own continuing professional development.
Practical Skills
The learner:
? Application of skills: can operate in complex and dynamic contexts that may be at the forefront of knowledge.
? Autonomy in skill use: can act in a professional capacity for self/others, with responsibility and largely autonomously.
Readings
Boumans Marcel, Davis John B. 2010. Economic Methodology. Understanding Economics as a Science. New York: Palgrave Macmillan.
Dow Sheila. 2002. Economic Methodology: An Inquiry. Oxford: Oxford University Press.
Izbrani znanstveni članki/Selected scientific articles
Additional information on implementation and assessment - Seminar work 50
- Oral examination 50
Student passes the exam, when each part of the examination is evaluated as positiv.
