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Rethinking the Theoretical Foundation of Economics II: Core Themes of the Multilevel Paradigm

Author

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  • Snower Dennis J.

    (Global Solutions Initiative, Berlin, Germany)

  • Wilson David Sloan

    (Department of Biological Sciences, Binghamton University, Binghamton, New York 13068, United States of America)

Abstract

This article introduces the core themes of the multilevel economic paradigm. This paradigm extends Darwin’s evolutionary framework of thought (concerned with living things) to economics, in contrast to the neoclassical paradigm, which is modeled after Newtonian mechanics (applicable primarily to inanimate objects). The central theme of the multilevel paradigm is functional organization, which refers to the way in which economic agents (individuals and groups) and systems are structured to achieve economic objectives. The multilevel paradigm recognizes that people are engaged in multiple levels of functional organization, and thus, agency is distributed between individuals and groups. These levels are flexible through time and across domains (economic, political, social, and environmental), so that the economy is understood as embedded in the polity, society, and the natural world. Flexible levels of functional organization are both a cause of and response to radical uncertainty. This flexibility of functional organization implies multilevel economic decision-making and multilevel flourishing.

Suggested Citation

  • Snower Dennis J. & Wilson David Sloan, 2025. "Rethinking the Theoretical Foundation of Economics II: Core Themes of the Multilevel Paradigm," Economics - The Open-Access, Open-Assessment Journal, De Gruyter, vol. 19(1), pages 1-24.
    • Handle: RePEc:bpj:econoa:v:19:y:2025:i:1:p:24:n:1001
    DOI: 10.1515/econ-2025-0133
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