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Economics as Applied Ethics: Fact and Value in Economic Policy
This important textbook has been revised and updated to continue its focus on the link between ethics and economic policy analysis, whilst ensuring that perspectives addressing the moral limits of the market, latest behavioural economics literature, and the changes in inequality over the years are included. Basic philosophical concepts are systematically described, followed by conventional welfare economic theory and policy, and applications to some topical economic problems such as income distribution and sustainable development.
312 pages, Paperback
Published June 1, 2017
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January 11, 2021
I like this book a lot. At the same time, I don’t think Beckerman is much of a writer. His ideas, morals, and clean grasp of his topic are excellent. The writing, however, lacks strength and cogency. E.g. what is this mess of a sentence?
Most of this is nothing new. Some of it is thought provoking and sincere, raising questions about equality and egalitarianism - e.g. it may not be necessary to ensure everyone has the same things so long as everyone has enough but does that not give those with more the power to influence the political spectrum. Add in reiterations of classic criticisms of gdp and the like and it’s a very nice little primer.
It’s also fairly balanced. Reading this one would have difficulty telling on which political spectrum Beckerman actually lies. He’d fit in well with Marxism but then he clearly has statements that align with more traditional neoliberalism. Either way, his ideas are strong, mostly morally appealing, and ask good questions about repercussions, unexpected side effects, and the actual impact of aid and welfare. A refreshingly balanced take in an industry (and world) that is so often polarized to inanity.
Most of this is nothing new. Some of it is thought provoking and sincere, raising questions about equality and egalitarianism - e.g. it may not be necessary to ensure everyone has the same things so long as everyone has enough but does that not give those with more the power to influence the political spectrum. Add in reiterations of classic criticisms of gdp and the like and it’s a very nice little primer.
It’s also fairly balanced. Reading this one would have difficulty telling on which political spectrum Beckerman actually lies. He’d fit in well with Marxism but then he clearly has statements that align with more traditional neoliberalism. Either way, his ideas are strong, mostly morally appealing, and ask good questions about repercussions, unexpected side effects, and the actual impact of aid and welfare. A refreshingly balanced take in an industry (and world) that is so often polarized to inanity.
Displaying 1 of 1 review