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Chaos in Basics of Economics (About Ambiguity of the Terms "Positive Economics" and "Normative Economics")

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  • Bogusław Czarny

Abstract

In this article I want to show the ambiguity of the popular division of economics: “positive economics” and “normative economics”. In my opinion economists interpret the meaning of these terms in different ways. At the beginning I present the criteria of distinguishing “positive economics” from “normative economics”, which are often used by different groups of contemporary economists. Then I create a typology of different meanings of these terms used by the economists. Finally, I quote different economists who use these terms in different meanings. This way I present the ambiguities in economists’ language. I conclude by indicating the damage caused by the ambiguity of the discussed classification. It can be the cause of unsolved arguments that unnecessarily involve participants’ time and effort.

Suggested Citation

  • Bogusław Czarny, 2011. "Chaos in Basics of Economics (About Ambiguity of the Terms "Positive Economics" and "Normative Economics")," Ekonomia journal, Faculty of Economic Sciences, University of Warsaw, vol. 25.
    • Handle: RePEc:eko:ekoeko:25_75
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    References listed on IDEAS

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    1. John B. Davis & D. W. Hands & Uskali Mäki (ed.), 1998. "The Handbook of Economic Methodology," Books, Edward Elgar Publishing, number 741.
    2. Philippe Mongin, 2006. "Value Judgments and Value Neutrality in Economics," Economica, London School of Economics and Political Science, vol. 73(290), pages 257-286, May.
    3. N. Gregory Mankiw, 1998. "Teaching the Principles of Economics," Eastern Economic Journal, Eastern Economic Association, vol. 24(4), pages 519-524, Fall.
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