Title: Should heterodox economics be taught in or outside of economics departments?

Authors: Marc Lavoie

Addresses: Department of Economics, University of Ottawa, Ontario, Canada

Abstract: There have been many student calls for more pluralism in economics classrooms. The paper outlines the reasons for which such a call is unlikely to be heard. Orthodox economists believe that there is already enough pluralism and debates within the orthodoxy, and they do not realise that heterodox economists can make a positive contribution to the field, believing instead that their contribution is mostly made up of various criticisms of mainstream economics. In addition, the present situation is not conducive to more pluralism because there is an excess supply flow of PhDs in economics willing to pursue an academic career. More pluralism in the classroom may thus necessitate the creation of a new field, distinct from economics.

Keywords: pluralism; heterodox economics; gattopardo economics; orthodox economics; economics education.

DOI: 10.1504/IJPEE.2015.072598

International Journal of Pluralism and Economics Education, 2015 Vol.6 No.2, pp.134 - 150

Published online: 21 Oct 2015 *

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