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What’s Wrong with Economics?

A Primer for the Perplexed
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( 196 ratings, 26 reviews)
Book Hero Magic crafted this summary to help describe this book. While it's new and still learning, it may not be perfect - your feedback is welcome! Summary
In What’s Wrong with Economics?, Robert Skidelsky examines the fundamental flaws and limitations within the field of economics, questioning its assumptions and real-world applicability. He argues for a more interdisciplinary approach that integrates historical, ethical, and philosophical perspectives to address complex global challenges. The book serves as both a critique and a call for reform in how economic theories are taught and applied.
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Book Hero Magic created this recommendation. While it's new and still learning, it may not be perfect - your feedback is welcome! IS THIS YOUR NEXT READ?

You might enjoy this book if you're curious about the limitations of economic theories and how they affect real-world decisions. Skidelsky invites readers to critically evaluate economic assumptions, making it a thought-provoking read for both students and enthusiasts of economics and social sciences.

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Book Hero Magic formatted this description to make it easier to read. While it's new and still learning, it may not be perfect - your feedback is welcome! Description

A passionate and informed critique of mainstream economics from one of the leading economic thinkers of our time

This insightful book looks at how mainstream economics’ quest for scientific certainty has led to a narrowing of vision and a convergence on an orthodoxy that is unhealthy for the field, not to mention the societies which base policy decisions on the advice of flawed economic models. Noted economic thinker Robert Skidelsky explains the circumstances that have brought about this constriction and proposes an approach to economics which includes philosophy, history, sociology, and politics.

Skidelsky’s clearly written and compelling critique takes aim at the way that economics is taught in today’s universities, where a focus on modelling leaves students ill-equipped to grapple with what is important and true about human life. He argues for a return to the ideal set out by John Maynard Keynes that the economist must be a “mathematician, historian, statesman, [and] philosopher” in equal measure.

Book Hero Magic summarised reviews for this book. While it's new and still learning, it may not be perfect - your feedback is welcome! HOW HAS THIS BEEN REVIEWED?

What's Wrong with Economics? by Robert Skidelsky is praised for its critical examination of mainstream economic methodology. Reviewers highlight its focus on the limitations of economic laws compared to natural sciences and its call for a broader inclusion of social science aspects like politics and sociology. The book is seen as essential reading for those questioning traditional economics and is commended for its accessible and impactful critique.

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Book Details

INFORMATION

ISBN: 9780300257496

Publisher: Yale University Press

Format: Paperback / softback

Date Published: 26 January 2021

Country: United States

Imprint: Yale University Press

Illustration: 8 b-w illus.

Audience: General / adult

DIMENSIONS

Width: 127.0mm

Height: 197.0mm

Weight: 250g

Pages: 248

About the Author

Robert Skidelsky is emeritus professor of political economy at the University of Warwick. He is the author of many books, including Money and Government: The Past and Future of Economics.

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