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A classification of the methodology of James M. Buchanan from a multidisciplinary perspective

Author

Listed:
  • Gustavo Nunes Mourão

    (FAE Centro Universitário in Curitiba)

  • Eduardo Angeli

    (Federal University of Paraná)

Abstract

James M. Buchanan (1919–2013) was notable for his contributions to different fields of Economics, being awarded with the Nobel Memorial Prize in this area in 1986. His methodology is characterized by three fundamental aspects: methodological individualism, a constitutional approach, and a contractarian political philosophy. In this paper, we explore the development of these features in Buchanan’s works and contrast them with alternative classifications in these categories by scholars in other areas of knowledge. We show that Buchanan’s individualism uses a concept of homo economicus that differs from most of his peers in economics. His constitutionalism follows a specific strand that differs from other constitutionalists of political science and law, and leads to his contractarianism, which also has its particularities within political philosophy and ethics.

Suggested Citation

  • Gustavo Nunes Mourão & Eduardo Angeli, 2022. "A classification of the methodology of James M. Buchanan from a multidisciplinary perspective," Constitutional Political Economy, Springer, vol. 33(4), pages 413-432, December.
    • Handle: RePEc:kap:copoec:v:33:y:2022:i:4:d:10.1007_s10602-021-09359-1
    DOI: 10.1007/s10602-021-09359-1
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    References listed on IDEAS

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    1. David Reisman, 1990. "The Political Economy of James Buchanan," Palgrave Macmillan Books, Palgrave Macmillan, number 978-1-349-10519-9.
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    More about this item

    Keywords

    James M. Buchanan; Individualism; Constitutionalism; Contractarianism; Constitutional Political Economy; Buchanan’s Methodology;
    All these keywords.

    JEL classification:

    • B29 - Schools of Economic Thought and Methodology - - History of Economic Thought since 1925 - - - Other
    • B31 - Schools of Economic Thought and Methodology - - History of Economic Thought: Individuals - - - Individuals
    • B49 - Schools of Economic Thought and Methodology - - Economic Methodology - - - Other

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