Hardback
A Pluralistic Introduction to Macroeconomics
Methodology, Theory, and Policy
9781035322336 Edward Elgar Publishing
This introductory textbook provides a broad introduction to the field of macroeconomics and the alternative approaches to modelling an economic system. It ultimately demonstrates that economic modelling is always a matter of choice and compromise, and no one school of thought can accurately capture the full essence of a real evolving economic system under all circumstances, in all places, and at all times in history.
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Critical Acclaim
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This introductory textbook provides a broad introduction to the field of macroeconomics and the alternative approaches to modelling an economic system. Adopting a pluralistic approach, it rigorously analyzes the theories and policies proposed by the classical and neoclassical, Marxian, institutionalist, Keynesian and post-Keynesian schools of thought. It critically examines fiscal, monetary, and regulatory policies prescribed by the different schools, exploring the intricate links between the economy, society and nature. It ultimately demonstrates that economic modelling is always a matter of choice and compromise, and no one school of thought can accurately capture the full essence of a real evolving economic system under all circumstances, in all places, and at all times in history.
Key Features:
● Presents a realistic picture of human behavior based on empirical evidence
● Discusses alternative approaches to modelling an economic system, and outlines the advantages and weaknesses of each
● Draws on diverse schools of thought and other scientific disciplines to explain the changes in the functioning of the economic system
● Focuses on how macroeconomic policies can be improved in a time of growing economic inequality and insecurity, with numerous ecological stresses and contradictions
Interdisciplinary in scope, this textbook will prove essential to scholars, researchers and students of economics and finance, particularly those interested in international economics, political economy, evolutionary economics, and radical and feminist economics. Economists and social scientists seeking alternative approaches to macroeconomics will equally benefit from this fundamental resource.
Key Features:
● Presents a realistic picture of human behavior based on empirical evidence
● Discusses alternative approaches to modelling an economic system, and outlines the advantages and weaknesses of each
● Draws on diverse schools of thought and other scientific disciplines to explain the changes in the functioning of the economic system
● Focuses on how macroeconomic policies can be improved in a time of growing economic inequality and insecurity, with numerous ecological stresses and contradictions
Interdisciplinary in scope, this textbook will prove essential to scholars, researchers and students of economics and finance, particularly those interested in international economics, political economy, evolutionary economics, and radical and feminist economics. Economists and social scientists seeking alternative approaches to macroeconomics will equally benefit from this fundamental resource.
Critical Acclaim
‘A most balanced and encompassing text. Along with standard topics, students get the “bigger picture” – how the social system, environment, culture shape the economy. Excellent presentation of the entire theoretical landscape, not one paradigm. This book will capture students’ attention and have them want more. A book for our times!’
– Örn B. Bodvarsson, Willamette University, US
‘The greatest strength of this textbook is its seamless integration of critical material alongside material that is taught in any introductory Macroeconomics course. This has the advantage of making the student critically examine the models they learn and gives them a taste of the field''s intellectual history. Given recent economic history, it may help to look back at how economists of the past thought about our world''s problems and struggled with solutions. I would certainly make this book at least a recommended reading for introductory macroeconomics.’
– Alfredo R.M. Rosete, Central Connecticut State University, US
‘A Pluralistic Introduction to Macroeconomics is a unique treasure trove of ideas, information and teaching tools that will open the minds of students and teachers alike to the power of multiple perspectives on Economics to illuminate our fascinating and complex world of macroeconomics. Suitable for Introductory as well as Intermediate courses in macroeconomics, this broad ranging textbook will also be of interest to teachers and students in non-economics disciplines as well.’
– Gerald Epstein, University of Massachusetts Amherst, US
‘Henrik Van den Berg has produced a wonderful textbook on Macroeconomics that is a significant advance over standard textbooks for its theoretical and methodological pluralism. In addition to standard macro it applies Institutionalist and Marxian analysis to give students a marvelously rich and stimulating take on the subject.’
– Lawrence King, University of Massachusetts Amherst, US
– Örn B. Bodvarsson, Willamette University, US
‘The greatest strength of this textbook is its seamless integration of critical material alongside material that is taught in any introductory Macroeconomics course. This has the advantage of making the student critically examine the models they learn and gives them a taste of the field''s intellectual history. Given recent economic history, it may help to look back at how economists of the past thought about our world''s problems and struggled with solutions. I would certainly make this book at least a recommended reading for introductory macroeconomics.’
– Alfredo R.M. Rosete, Central Connecticut State University, US
‘A Pluralistic Introduction to Macroeconomics is a unique treasure trove of ideas, information and teaching tools that will open the minds of students and teachers alike to the power of multiple perspectives on Economics to illuminate our fascinating and complex world of macroeconomics. Suitable for Introductory as well as Intermediate courses in macroeconomics, this broad ranging textbook will also be of interest to teachers and students in non-economics disciplines as well.’
– Gerald Epstein, University of Massachusetts Amherst, US
‘Henrik Van den Berg has produced a wonderful textbook on Macroeconomics that is a significant advance over standard textbooks for its theoretical and methodological pluralism. In addition to standard macro it applies Institutionalist and Marxian analysis to give students a marvelously rich and stimulating take on the subject.’
– Lawrence King, University of Massachusetts Amherst, US
Contributors
