The Economics of Scientific Knowledge: A Rational Choice Neo-institutionalist Theory of Science

ISBN-13: 9781840648041 / Angielski / Twarda / 2001 / 304 str.

Opis

"Economics of Scientific Knowledge" demonstrates how contemporary economic theories, such as rational choice theory, public choice theory, game theory and neo-institutionalist economics can be successfully applied to resolve the issues currently existing in science studies and science and technology policy. Dr. Shi criticizes the sociology of scientific knowledge and the traditional philosophy of science for their failures in justifying science as a rational enterprise. From an economic perspective, he explains why scientific enterprise as a public good is possible if individual scientists are self-interested, and presents a new and convincing story of how scientific knowledge is produced in the contemporary society. With professional experience as a policy analyst, Shi's economic perspective on scientists and their behaviours, and his institutional analysis should have great implications to the current discussions on science and innovation policy issues. Scholars and students in the philosophy of science, sociology and scientific knowledge, and in the field of economics as well as scientists, administrators and policy analysts should find this book a welcome addition to the literature of this increasingly important field.