Rethinking Economics

‘The 2008 financial crisis and its continuing aftermaths have starkly revealed the limitations of the practice of intellectual 'mono-cropping' in economics, that is, the near-total dominance by one approach to economics: Neo-classical economics. Leading the charge against this practice have been young economists from the Rethinking Economics movement. In this book, these young economists, rather than trying to replace one intellectual mono-cropping with another, provide a vision for a pluralist approach to economics. The volume, by presenting nine essays in which leading economists introduce the economic schools they represent, broadens our vision of economics and deepens our understanding of it. It is a highly relevant and enlightening contribution to a debate that will shape the future of the world economy as well as the way in which economics is taught and debated.’ — Ha-Joon Chang, University of Cambridge, author of Economics: The User's Guide

'The members of Rethinking Economics haven't just protested against the narrowness of the conventional economics curriculum, they have done something about it. This volume admirably addresses their need for excellent up-to-date expert accounts of a range of different approaches to economics, all with student input.' — Sheila Dow, Emeritus Professor, University of Stirling, UK.

‘Economics students have been short-changed by degrees that teach only Neoclassical economics despite its failures before, during and after the crisis. This book provides a useful introduction to alternative voices in economics at a time when, though none of them has all the answers, they are each at least posing questions that the mainstream failed to even consider.’ — Professor Steve Keen, Kingston University London, UK.

‘This book is much more than a rethink of economics, it’s a revolution in the economic landscape, democratizing theory and language for public benefit. This book builds a new corps of citizen economists and helps prevent economists-cum-pundits from pulling esoteric fast ones on the public. It’s a must read for anyone wanting to challenge the economic system’s dysfunctional status quo and an essential guide for advocates of social, economic and environmental sustainability. For genuine progress to occur, new economic theories, language and tools are needed. This book answers that call.’ – Dr. Michael Shank, New York University

‘A timely and informative guide to competing schools of thought in economics. An excellent starting point for students looking for a broader economics education.’ - Dr Jo Michell, Senior Lecturer in Economics, UWE Bristol, UK.

‘Is there life beyond mainstream economics?’, you ask. Well, here is your answer: nine approaches, clearly explained by top specialists in each approach. This book produced by members of Rethinking Economics is warmly recommended.’ — Victoria Chick, Emeritus Professor of Economics at University College London, UK.

'A very nice, accessible introduction to economics – each chapter is written by a leading expert, from feminist, through ecological to behavioural approaches.' - @Went1955 (Robert Went, Economist, Dutch Scientific Council for Government Policy)