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The three legs of a stool: Comment on Richard Nelson, “The sciences are different and the differences matter”

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  • Cohen, Wesley M.
  • Fjeld, Jon

Abstract

In our response to Nelson’s important argument regarding the fit of research methods with the subject matter of various natural and social sciences, we highlight the complementarities offered by combining qualitative analysis with modeling and statistical analysis, focusing on economics. The argument is illustrated using a discussion of two studies on the economics of innovation.

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  • Cohen, Wesley M. & Fjeld, Jon, 2016. "The three legs of a stool: Comment on Richard Nelson, “The sciences are different and the differences matter”," Research Policy, Elsevier, vol. 45(9), pages 1708-1712.
    • Handle: RePEc:eee:respol:v:45:y:2016:i:9:p:1708-1712
    DOI: 10.1016/j.respol.2016.06.002
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    References listed on IDEAS

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    Cited by:

    1. Andrea Filippetti & Maria Savona, 2017. "University–industry linkages and academic engagements: individual behaviours and firms’ barriers. Introduction to the special section," The Journal of Technology Transfer, Springer, vol. 42(4), pages 719-729, August.

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