Situational analysis and the concept of equilibrium

Article Abstract:

Economists tend to view economic developments from the constrained descriptions of classic models. Thus, Adam Smith's theories on price mechanism are used to explain situations to the exclusion of historical and societal influences. Whenever the model proves inadequate, mathematical adjustments are formulated to fit reality into the standard model. However, societal elements vary and are not fixed objects. An alternative model needs to take into account the interactions between these varying elements.

Social economics, Socioeconomics, Analysis (Philosophy), Analytical philosophy

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"Class" as metaphor; on the unreflexive transformation of a concept into an object

Article Abstract:

'Class' in the social sciences is a metaphor or concept which can be reified into a hypothetical object for study. These classes do not exist in nature so much as they are mental constructs of people. In fact, the ideas of class came from common language and folk wisdom, thence adopted into natural sciences. Finally, the concepts of class were adopted into social science. Researchers can overlook the abstract origins of class concepts.

Analysis, Social classes, Social class, Classification, Sociological research

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Economic models and historical explanation

Article Abstract:

Economic models can explain reality by providing descriptions of 'what' occurs, which does not entail causality. The models can also describe 'why' what happens occurs, which is causality. Philosophers can criticize 'what' models as not really historical explanation, but 'what' models based on concepts can and do provide historical explanations. Thus, different types of models may be applied to the same economic situation.

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