On the History of Economic Thought is introduced by an essay in intellectual autobiography, outlining the development of Coats' key ideas and the distinctive elements of his approach. Two themes in particular emerge. The first is the difference between British and American economics, both in content and in the practice of the profession. This is an important element in all areas of his research. The second theme is in the interrelationships between economic ideas, events (or conditions) and policy issues. The book concludes by offering an assessment of the current state of the discipline...

The Sociology and Professionalization of Economics contains essays on the social nature of economics as a science; on the origin and history of some of the institutions which have done most to shape the development of the discipline; and on economics as a profession. As with the other volumes in the series, there is particular emphasis on the similarity and differences between economics and economists in Britain and in North America. The volume is divided into three parts. The first addresses issues in the sociology of economics, including possible applications of ideas from the soicology of...

Are there distinct European traditions in economics? Is modern economics homogenous and American? This volume explores the development of economics in Western Europe since World War II. It goes beyond conventional history of economics in its emphasis on the historical and institutional context, economic policy, and the development of economics as a profession. The volume includes case studies of the UK, Sweden, the Netherlands, Belgium, Germany, France, Italy, Portugal, Spain and Greece. Each of these examines the conditions relating to the supply of, and demand for, economists. These include...

This volume contains a spirited debate among eminent journalists, economists, and publishers about the spread of economic ideas. The interchange among the writers provides both the lay reader and the interested professional with fascinating insights into what happens behind the scenes in academia, publishing, and journalism. The first two sections of the book discuss the flow of ideas from economist to economist and from economists to the general public. The third part examines the use and abuse of economic ideas in policy formation, and the final section provides insights into the funding of...