Showing papers in "International Journal of Social Economics in 1994"
TL;DR: In this article, the impact of humans on the Earth and how natural resources are related to economic wellbeing is discussed, and the co-evolution of nature and society and the unsustainable system that humans have created.
Abstract: Examines the impact of humans on the Earth, and how natural resources are related to economic wellbeing. Links evolution and increases in population to natural causes. Discusses the co‐evolution of nature and society, and the unsustainable system that humans have created. Shows how incompatible a market economy is with the preservation of the environment and biodiversity. Concludes that nature will have an impact on policy and cites some examples of this in the USA.
25 citations
TL;DR: In this article, an epistemological formulation of economics is presented, which challenges the neo-classical and macroeconomic foundations of mainstream economics and then presents the rigorously analytical depths of ethico-economics.
Abstract: Undertakes an epistemological formulation of ethico‐economics. This formulation challenges the neo‐classical and macroeconomic foundations of mainstream economics and then presents the rigorously analytical depths of ethico‐economics. Traces the developments, the praxis of the rational precept of economic science from its Hellenic roots as this found inroads into the thinking of the classical, Austrian institutionalists and political economists. Shows to be logically flawed several areas of general equilibrium and market equilibrium relations that we face without question in a pedagogical presentation of economic theory. Even the microeconomic and macroeconomic dichotomy is a kind of duality in economic reasoning that has the traces of Kantian dualism in it. Hence, in none of the received economic doctrines the circular cause and effect of the epistemic and the ontic roots of human reasoning are unified together to give a truly interactive view of economic activities embedded within the larger ecological ...
21 citations
TL;DR: In this paper, the authors argue that the institutional arrangements, social organizations, and ideology in Eastern Europe are not conducive to the establishment of capitalism, and certainly not the laissez-faire variety, with Poland cited as the illustrative case.
Abstract: The thesis that the institutional arrangements, social organizations, and ideology in Eastern Europe are not conducive to the establishment of capitalism, and certainly not the laissez‐faire variety, with Poland cited as the illustrative case. Karl Polanyi′s necessary conditions for laissez‐faire capitalism in the nineteenth century represent the point of origin for the analysis, i.e. the maintenance of rules to permit the self‐regulating market. The focus is on the ongoing process of privatization, citing the primary institutional shortcomings. Also examines governmental structural problems in addition to historical institutional developments. Considers the history of property rights from legal and cultural perspectives. The final concern is to offer a different interpretation of markets, i.e. markets as cultural and political institutions.
17 citations
TL;DR: This paper argued that instead of focusing on moral redemption, the moral decay of these societies has even been enhanced by the infusion of economic egoism, and that the present transition can be seen as a process of transformation from primitive socialism to primitive capitalism.
Abstract: Claims that the process of transition of former socialist countries has been misguided. The reform of the economic system is but part of the overall process of social transformation, and it is argued that at the root of the disappointing results has been the fact that instead of focusing on moral redemption, the moral decay of these societies has even been enhanced by the infusion of economic egoism. The present transition can be seen as a process of transformation from primitive socialism to primitive capitalism. Without the sanctity of law and order rooted in the value system of the cultural heritage of Judeo‐Christian ethics, the privatization of state industries and public utilities including the commercialization of education, health, the arts and sciences has been creating conditions for a place far removed from an environment conducive to social peace, political stability and economic growth.
15 citations
TL;DR: In this paper, it is shown that co-operation by farmers in the shape of an environmental co-operative is a Pareto efficient alternative to government interventions, and that for legitimacy, effectiveness and efficiency it is important that covenants, transferable pollution rights or permits and management agreements are a coherent part of the instruments of an Environmental Co-operative.
Abstract: Nature and landscape and the quality of soil, water and air are indicated as the environment. On the basis of exclusiveness and rivalry the environment is a public good. Modern mechanized and intensified agriculture has reduced qualities of this environment. These consequences are negative external effects of contemporary agriculture, and in this sense a typical example of market failure. Government intervention is, because of x‐inefficiency and allocation inefficiency, not without problems. An alternative would be to apply a decentralized decision‐making process. The “club” theory offers a theoretical basis from which it can be deduced that co‐operation by farmers in the shape of an environmental co‐operative is a Pareto efficient alternative to Government interventions. For legitimacy, effectiveness and efficiency it is important that covenants, transferable pollution rights or permits and management agreements are a coherent part of the instruments of an environmental co‐operative.
14 citations
TL;DR: The authors examines the relationship between public welfare and the pursuit of happiness via a discussion on the conception on public welfare provision and the way in which it is received as consumption, and argues that state-organized welfare polity has unintentionally expanded the scope of and expectation of citizens on consumption.
Abstract: Examines the relationship between public welfare and the pursuit of happiness via a discussion on the conception on public welfare provision and the way in which it is received as consumption. Introduces concepts on organized welfare and positions individual happiness in the realm of consumption, and argues that state‐organized welfare polity has unintentionally expanded the scope of and expectation of citizens on consumption. Outlines the critics on welfare state provision. Argues for a conceptualization of happiness with reference to the mode of welfare consumption. In spite of problems relating to the welfare state, collective consumption has provided both symbolic and material goods through which a new set of consumption relations is developed. Ends with remarks on the implication of welfare consumerism in creating the social identity of citizen‐consumers and happiness in the coming modernity.
10 citations
TL;DR: This article reviewed Cropsey's 1955 argument in order to apprehend just what charges are being laid at the door of modern welfare economics and the way in which Benjamin Ward misconstrued that argument in his 1956 “rebuttal.
Abstract: Cropsey′s 1955 invitation to reassess the particular metaphysic or political philosophy which underpins modern economics remains under‐appreciated. Reviews Cropsey′s 1955 argument in order to apprehend just what charges are being laid at the door of modern welfare economics. Considers the way in which Benjamin Ward misconstrued that argument in his 1956 “rebuttal” and the same misunderstandings and dividing lines which still exist in economics today. Offers illustration from the contemporary economics literature (e.g. regarding the market for baby adoption) to gauge the plausibility of Cropsey′s 1955 prediction that certain social, political and moral consequences will follow for society in the longer run if more traditional metaphysical teachings and conceptions of social welfare are undermined by what Cropsey sees as the potentially destructive metaphysics embodied in orthodox welfare economics.
10 citations
TL;DR: The authors discusses the causes of structural change and trade deficits in an attempt to find the necessary policy measures, and concludes that the private sector would be able to produce more effective change and be capable of managing transition.
Abstract: Discusses problems within the US economy, such as the decline of wages and standards of living, and the effect this has on the community. Examines the causes of structural change and trade deficits in an attempt to find the necessary policy measures. Considers certain problems which need to be addressed and policy changes required (reduction of the military‐ industrial complex, certain govern‐ment training programmes), before concluding that the private sector would be able to produce more effective change and be capable of managing transition.
7 citations
TL;DR: In this article, the essential economic proposals of Major Douglas, whose social (BEI) movement was a substantial political force in the interwar years, are discussed and a new interpretation of his collaboration with A.R. Orage, a prominent guild socialist, between 1918 and 1922 is provided.
Abstract: Restates the essential economic proposals of Major Douglas, whose social (BEI) movement was a substantial political force in the inter‐war years. Refutes some common misinterpretations of his work and provides a new interpretation of his collaboration with A.R. Orage, a prominent guild socialist, between 1918 and 1922. Re‐assesses Douglas’ contributions to economic thought in the light of more recent events and of the development of the newly recognized discipline of social economics. Aims to show that Douglas’ warnings fall within the boundaries of this discipline, both in questionning the purpose of the economic system and in assessing its impact on the community in which it operates.
6 citations
TL;DR: The relationship between economics and psychology is discussed in this paper, where it is argued that economic theories are independent of psychological theories, even in those cases in which the economist has tried to present his economic conclusions as grounded on specific psychological theories.
Abstract: Attempts to express certain views about the relationship that Robbins advocates between economics and psychology. Develops two main conclusions: first, Robbins maintains that economic theories are independent of psychological theories, even in those cases in which the economist has tried to present his economic conclusions as grounded on specific psychological theories. This procedure, however, is greatly misleading and can damage the autonomy of economics, making it dependent on the particular theories that are provided to explain human behaviour. At the same time, Robbins defends the view that economics should not be entirely deprived of certain references to psychological or subjective notions. A positivistic attitude as the one that tries to avoid this sort of concept can be the result of a behaviouristic approach to economic science, distrusted by the British economist. It can also be fostered by an empiricist and monistic view of economics, according to which only observable data can be employed as ...
4 citations
TL;DR: In this paper, the authors argue that the scientific paradigm of economic thought is limited in its ability to account for the ethical and moral functioning of individuals as part of a moral community.
Abstract: In today′s complex and interdependent society the meaning of the individual and the meaning of the community become critical for the functioning of a well‐ordered society. Examines the basic flaw in classical economic reasoning which promotes an anti‐social meaning of reality. Namely, its premisses limit reasoning to the analytical meaning of the individual isolated from significance given to the importance of community. Draws the conclusion that the scientific paradigm of economic thought is limited in its ability to account for the ethical and moral functioning of individuals as part of a moral community. It is a theory of reasoning with little regard for broader human ends than self‐interest efficiency. However, when the economic “technique” is applied to society it becomes normative for behavioural definitions.
TL;DR: The belief that government interferes with individual freedom and that private and public goods are competitive appear to be the two major reasons for man's aversion to paying taxes as discussed by the authors, however, especially from a socioeconomic viewpoint, government also increases individual freedom, and the acceptance of necessity is as much an ingredient of good life as the attainment of freedom Furthermore, private goods and private goods are as complementary as they are competitive, and compared with the main stream neoclassical economist, the social economist has a more complete understanding of the actual human condition and, in so doing, he can
Abstract: The beliefs that Government interferes with individual freedom and that private and public goods are competitive appear to be the two major reasons for man′s aversion to paying taxes In reality, however, especially from a socio‐economic viewpoint, government also increases individual freedom, and the acceptance of necessity is as much an ingredient of good life as the attainment of freedom Furthermore, private goods and public goods are as complementary as they are competitive Thus, compared with the main‐ stream neoclassical economist, the social economist has a more complete understanding of the actual human condition and, in so doing, he can provide better solutions to the problem of man′s hostility to paying taxes
TL;DR: The danger in the present situation is compounded by the fact that there is a great temptation to revive what Eric Voegelin called the new gnosticism as mentioned in this paper, the array of authoritarian Governments, of which the Marxist State was one, which were based on claims to special knowledge which provided all-purpose solutions.
Abstract: Time has run out for the “Vanguard Party”, but the growing disparity in wealth between the industrialized world and the less‐developed world and growing problems of income distribution and public order still give life to the “Dream Economy” proposed by Marxists and others. If the dream is not kept alive and made more rational, confrontations in many parts of the world will continue to increase. Argues that potential rational solutions do exist, but the danger in the present situation is compounded by the fact that there is a great temptation to revive what Eric Voegelin called the “new gnosticism” – the array of authoritarian Governments, of which the Marxist State was one, which were based on claims to special knowledge which provided all‐purpose solutions. Current disparities of wealth provide rich feeding grounds for such ideas.
TL;DR: The authors argues that the conventional economic analysis is wrong in denying the existence of markets and capitalism to certain modern societies (e.g. the former Soviet bloc countries). But the central thesis is that the environment in which buyers and sellers interact does not have to be free in the Western sense to be considered as a market.
Abstract: The traditional analysis of the Soviet‐type economies denies the existence of markets to these economies. The usual argument is that these economies lack freedom and are characterized by the absence of private property. Additionally, the conventional analysis implies that theory of markets is a theory of free markets, one characterized by free economic interaction among economic units (individuals or businesses) regardless of the degree of market perfection. Argues that the conventional economic analysis is wrong in denying the existence of markets and capitalism to certain modern societies (e.g. the former Soviet bloc countries). The central thesis is that the environment in which buyers and sellers interact does not have to be free in the Western sense to be considered as a market. Points out that the economic systems of the former Soviet Union, China, Cuba and others may be characterized as totalitarian state capitalism.
TL;DR: In this paper, the authors discuss problems posed by such ideas as well as changes which seem to be taking place and which may make economic justice more feasible, and discuss the changes that may be taken to make such ideas more feasible.
Abstract: Economic justice is possible, if one means by it commutative justice which provides for human dignity, for fair exchange and for the participation of everyone who wants to participate. It is also essential if worldwide disorder is to be avoided. But many forces militate against it and it requires an insurance system such as the one which Josiah Royce proposed to control war as well as changes in the nature and use of money. Examines problems posed by such ideas as well as changes which seem to be taking place and which may make economic justice more feasible.
TL;DR: The authors examines Rand and Marx from an ethical viewpoint, looking at the origins and content of morality, moral laws, the principles of ethics and realistically reflects the nature of man, as man can be neither wholly altruistic nor wholly individualistic but is rather a combination of both, with man's self-development depending on interaction with other haman beings.
Abstract: Identifies certain commonalities in the bases of the moral philosophies of Rand (individualist/capitalist/egoist) and Marx (collectivist/socialist/altruist), such as a man’s natural rights and materialism. Examines their philosophies from an ethical viewpoint, looking at the origins and content of morality, moral laws, the principles of ethics and realistically reflects the nature of man, as man can be neither wholly altruistic nor wholly individualistic but is rather a combination of both, with man’s self‐development depending on interaction with other haman beings. Concludes that neither doctrine presents a viable model of social organization.
TL;DR: In this paper, the role of left Hegelianism in Marx′s development of historical materialism is discussed, and a standard view has Marx writing from the perspectives of his mentor, Bruno Bauer, with whom he later broke in “On the Jewish Question.
Abstract: Rethinking Marxism after the Cold War includes the task of reconstructing its genesis, beginning with the role of left Hegelianism in Marx′s development of historical materialism. Reviews the debates within the Hegelian school at the time of Marx′s “conversion” to it, in order to situate his dissertation project (1838‐41) on the difference between the Democritean and Epicurean philosophy of nature. A standard view has Marx writing from the perspectives of his mentor, Bruno Bauer, with whom he later broke in “On the Jewish Question” (1843). Argues that this view is incorrect. Instead, Marx constructs an analogy, according to which Democritus is to the Old Hegelians as Epicurus is to the Young Hegelians. The Epicurean “atom” then becomes a cryptogram of Bauerian Selbstbewusstsein. Although Epicurus has his sympathy, Marx is ultimately critical of him. Epicurean freedom is abstract and theoretical, but the liberation Marx aims towards is concrete and effective.
TL;DR: Solzhenitsyn, former Zek and Nobel Laureate, found the causes of the cruelty of which the Communists were capable to lie in the Marxist-Leninist ideology.
Abstract: Solzhenitsyn, former Zek and Nobel Laureate, found the causes of the cruelty of which the Communists were capable to lie in the Marxist‐Leninist ideology. The atheistic Communists had substituted their ideology for the values of Christianity which had stood the Russians in good stead and had perdured the test of time. The Communists were bent on stamping out religion. They arrested priests, nuns and those who practised their beliefs. Solzhenitsyn sees in religion the anodyne to Russia′s ills.
TL;DR: In this paper, the authors discuss the present-day economic transformation sponsored by the IMF in the direction of privatization in the Commonwealth of Independent States (CIS) and present case study the Muslim CIS bloc as the perfect example of the fiasco of the prescriptions of structural transformation by the socialist and capitalist orders.
Abstract: Discusses the present‐day economic trans‐formation sponsored by the IMF in the direction of privatization in the Commonwealth of Independent States. Chooses as case study the Muslim CIS bloc as the perfect example of the fiasco of the prescriptions of structural transformation by the socialist and capitalist orders. Adopts a methodological and empirical approach to demonstrate the extreme destabilization and disequilibrium, which are shown to remain embedded in these prescriptions of change. Hence, the monetary, fiscal, trade and pricing policies prescribed by the IMF are under attack as much as the old socialist prescription is shown to have been an unreal one. Gives a brief history of the Muslim CIS bloc pointing to an altogether different approach to structural change desired by these people: the world view of Islam in socioeconomic matters. Gives details of this to bring out the nature of this world view in the form of a universally knowledge‐based model of structural change. Discusses the policy impl...
TL;DR: The law of value performs its regulatory function in the capitalist system where the private ownership of means of production and commodity production prevail Under the centrally directed system of socialism, the economic process must be determined by plans and valuations of the central authority to maintain the consistency of the system′s internal co-ordinating mechanism as discussed by the authors.
Abstract: The law of value performs its regulatory function in the capitalist system where the private ownership of means of production and commodity production prevail Under the centrally directed system of socialism, the economic process must be determined by plans and valuations of the central authority to maintain the consistency of the system′s internal co‐ordinating mechanism In theory, the process of building socialism is a process of the withering away of the operation of the law of value Recognition of the law of value as a permanent feature of the socialist economic system means conceding either a lack of understanding of the fundamental differences between capitalism and socialism, or the failure of the Marxist‐Leninist dogma It also acknowledges that the Soviet system of socialism was exposed to increasing contamination by elements incompatible with socialism and was gradually transformed into its opposite – a form of centrally regulated exchange economy where a new ruling class, grown from the Part
TL;DR: In this paper, the question of whether technological innovation should be regarded as an exogenous or endogenous variable in economic models is posed, based on experiences rather than philosophical speculation, and the question is answered by examining the related decision-making processes in one of the major electronics multinationals.
Abstract: Combines theory with practice, based on experiences rather than philosophical speculation. The question posed is whether technological innovation must be regarded as an exogenous or endogenous variable in economic models. Neoclassical economics, even in such modified versions as developed by Samuelson and Solow, regard technology, labour economics and social change, exogenous. The belief is that they are endogenous, and innovations in the technological sphere are no less influenced by economic factors than the economy by technological developments. Examines the related decision‐making processes in one of the major electronics multinationals in order to obtain more insight into the complex interaction between economic and technological changes.
TL;DR: The belief in the endless progress of men materially and morally has not stood the test of time as discussed by the authors and the gradual displacement of religion as a subject worthy of study has now reached its zenith.
Abstract: The belief in the endless progress of men materially and morally has not stood the test of time. The wars and atrocities of the twentieth century have shown that evil resides within man himself. Discusses the role of Darwinism and science; despite much criticism, the evolutionists continue to ride high in the fields of education and science. The gradual displacement of religion as a subject worthy of study has now reached its zenith. Discusses the Nazi Holocaust and the Gulag Obletion. Solzhenitsyn attributed all the evils of Soviet Communism to Marxist‐Leninist ideology and the rejection of traditional religion and moral values. Concludes that Western society is like a ship without a rudder.
TL;DR: The authors argued that the USSR never satisfied Marx′s view that socialism must be built on capitalism and pointed out that some Western developments, e.g., the erosion of the principle of private property, socialization of land and even labour, etc.
Abstract: Some claim Marx was proved wrong by the collapse of the USSR but there is reason to think Marxism is more powerful than this view assumes. For example, the USSR never satisfied Marx′s view that socialism must be built on capitalism. Arguably, Marx is being borne out by some Western developments – e.g. the erosion of the principle of private property, socialization of land and even labour, etc. Still, a better way to understand these matters would seem to be the bourgeois position of individualism, whereby individual human beings can make first choices and influence the direction of events, slowly but surely. The result of such an understanding is just the mixed‐up world of human life we witness.
TL;DR: The key to workplace reconstruction is to shift attention from property rights and personal rights to human material need by recognizing that rights derive from need and that rights are means to the end of meeting need as discussed by the authors.
Abstract: Mainstream economics views the workplace from the perspective of property rights, maximum efficiency, and profit maximization. Economic resources, including human beings, are represented as instrumentalities. Social economics affirms the problem of unmet human material need and the inadequacy of the “invisible hand” solution but does not provide a single paradigm as to how the workplace is reconstructed to meet that need. The key to workplace reconstruction is to shift attention from property rights and personal rights to human material need by recognizing that rights derive from need and that rights are means to the end of meeting need. Describes the seven workplace regimes in which human material need is more salient than property rights, personal rights or organizational types such as sole proprietorship or corporation, and the characteristics of the industrial commons, drawing on Ronald Oakerson′s framework for analysing the natural resource commons.
TL;DR: In this paper, the authors focus on a sixteenth-century religious movement that bears a striking resemblance to nineteenth-twentieth century communism and demonstrate simi-larity between Anabaptism and contemporary communism in the original recruitment pattern, the leadership configuration, the basic ideological development, the employment of coercion, the control of history, the reform measures, and the ultimate ramifications.
Abstract: Focuses on a sixteenth‐century religious movement that bears a striking resemblance to nineteenth‐twentieth century communism. Before securing power the movement presented itself as a peaceful, humanistic denomination that advocated egalitarianism, congregationalism, and self‐help. It rejected the institutionalization of both church and state. Securing power the Anabaptists established a totalitarian regime that exceeded its adversaries in regimentation and coercion. They totally restructured the economic system with “communism” and the traditional family system with polygamy. Demonstrates simi‐larity between Anabaptism and contemporary communism in the original recruitment pattern, the leadership configuration, the basic ideological development, the employment of coercion, the control of history, the reform measures, and the ultimate ramifications. The implication is that the communist principle may be endemic to the human condition and may reappear in a different form in the future.
TL;DR: In this paper, the authors discuss James Buchanan's contribution to the important topic of cost-containment in the area of health care, and discuss the causes of the rise in the cost of health and assess Buchanan's anxieties in respect of the burden.
Abstract: Discusses James Buchanan′s contribution to the important topic of cost‐containment in the area of health care. Historical and ideational in its thrust, it seeks also to make a more general contribution by showing how the methodology of public choice can be applied to a specific issue in economic and social policy. Examines the precise body of theory which Buchanan brings to bear when attempting a politico‐economic calculus of consent. Considers the causes of the rise in the cost of health and assesses Buchanan′s anxieties in respect of the burden. Discusses Buchanan′s solutions and explores alternatives to the options he endorses. Concludes that Buchanan′s answers may not appeal to all readers, but they are a fruitful area of research and speculation.
TL;DR: Elegance in economic modelling is one determinant of the professional acceptability of “scientific” contributions to the economics literature as discussed by the authors. But what determines the profession′s definition of "elegance" is a question less frequently asked.
Abstract: Elegance in economic modelling is one determinant of the professional acceptability of “scientific” contributions to the economics literature. Just what determines the profession′s definition of “elegance” is a question less frequently asked. Social economists commonly appeal to questions of teleology or the implicit philosophy underscoring mathematically rigorous and elegant models. The particular difficulty they face, however, is that the socialization process which occurs in graduate schools inculcates regard for mathematical technique to a much greater extent than it heightens awareness of philosophical issues.
TL;DR: In this article, the authors examine the role of the perestroika period of Soviet development as an exemplar of a self-declared movement towards a more democratic and humane socialism.
Abstract: Examines Gorbachev′s (1985‐1991) period of Soviet development as an exemplar of a self‐declared movement towards a more democratic and humane socialism. Gorbachev′s perestroika envisaged a fundamental structural and technological renovation of Soviet economy, reactivation of Soviet persons and attitudes, and overall redirection of the nation′s economic, political and social priorities. Analyses Gorbachev′s model of democratizing socialism with respect to underlying causes or origins, and institutions and policies initiated in the Gorbachev years.
TL;DR: In this paper, the concept of federalism outside such limited paradigmatic boundaries and including relevant social and economic variables is analyzed and clarified, and a holistic and interdisciplinary methodology is applied to interrelate the social, the political and the economic.
Abstract: Analyses and clarifies the concept of federalism outside such limited paradigmatic boundaries and includes the relevant social and economic variables. Applies a holistic and interdisciplinary methodology in the framework of the processes of general culture evolution to interrelate the social, the political and the economic. Compares the West European experiences and the US prototype, to that of the current movement towards an evolving Russian federation. Analyses the apparent positive and centripetal movement towards West European federalism, in the context of the European Union, juxtoposed to the centrifrugal forces evident in the collapse of the USSR. Analyses the current movement towards a Russian federation.
TL;DR: For instance, the authors discusses family resemblances between the philosophical and social outlooks of Karl Marx and John Dewey, and discusses in detail the similarities between their respective critiques of liberal capitalism.
Abstract: Discusses family resemblances between the philosophical and social outlooks of Karl Marx and John Dewey. Despite fundamental differences (for example Dewey′s meliorism versus Marx′s commitment to revolutionary struggle), the degree of their philosophical compatibility is considerable. There are, for example, striking parallels between their respective versions of epistemological pragmatism and naturalism. Discusses in detail resemblances between their respective critiques of liberal capitalism.