I would firstly like to indicate that, based on my work in different continents, the whole question of economic science and policy is viewed as part of a bigger picture. This bigger picture views the present “king” of development, economics, as a subsystem, disconnected from a more profound and deeper universal system that includes the ecological and human world. As a result, we need to examine the big picture before being able to deal with the subsystem, sustainable economics.
This bigger picture involves “root values”, which are very different from the values on which present day neoclassical economics philosophy is based. Therefore, it appears that we need to look at the “roots” first to build a sustainable foundation on which to seat new economics thinking.
After this foundation of root values is established, we enter a second level where extensive plurality exists, as in sustainable economics. This plurality is based in such considerations as cultures, disciplines, tastes, countries and regions. This is not a problem, as ALL sectors, (including economics), are “reading for the same song sheet”, ——-that is, the foundational values are in common for all.
Questions for International RLF Workshop
I will briefly answer the questions you sent.
– Attractiveness of neoclassical economics:
The attractiveness of neoclassical economics appears to be based on many years of being taught the supreme position of science in economic development is undisputed. Therefore the whole question of being able to count or measure everything makes this thinking comfortable. However, now we are faced with new challenges that do not seem to be solved using only a purely scientific measurement system.
– Challenges, roles and limits (?) of (present day) economic science:
Some scholars are studying our left/right brain thinking and how it relates to sustainability. (Please refer especially to Iain McGilchrist’s new book: “The Master and his Emissary: The Divided Brain and the Making of the Modern World).
This author and others refer to left brain (scientific) domination we now experience in economics and other fields, as related to our discrediting of our vast “inner Wisdom” capacity of the right brain, and creating an imbalance between left/right brain thinking. This needed balance between left/right brain thinking will apparently allow for the development of sustainable thinking and development in all systems.
– Pluralism and Economic science:
Based on the above mentioned studies, pluralism is encouraged. This thinking certainly brings forth the basic thinking of Peter Soderbaum’s work. The only difference is related to firstly developing a foundational set of sustainable values , from which diverse sectors draw common strength.
Conclusions:
a) Look at broader society first to establish a common set of universal values for all sectors.
b) Work with different groups in sustainable economics to establish sustainable philosophies and practices, based on a common values base.
c) Establish new alternative economics plan, based on universal values and diversity.
Please note, the majority of this sustainable values based work is drawn from my book, “The Blockage: Rethinking Organizational Principles for the 21st Century, American Literary Press, 2007.