Learning from interacting: Language, economics and the entrepreneur. Issue 4 (23rd August 2014)

• Record Type: Journal Article
• Authors: O'Rourke, Brendan K
• Editors: Abeles, TomP.; Ali, Tanweer
• Is Part Of: On the horizon. Volume 22:Issue 4(2014)
• Publication Date: 2014-08-23
• Subjects: Education, Higher -- Periodicals; 378.005
• DOI: 10.1108/OTH-01-2014-0002
• Languages: English
• ISSNs: 1074-8121

Abstract

Abstract : Purpose: The language of economics dominates conversations about the economy. Analyzing this discourse from a great variety of perspectives has blossomed but promises much more. The study of the key word entrepreneur both illustrates the strengths and weaknesses of this diversity, and also points to some possible opportunities for enhancing interaction. Design/methodology/approach: A broad discourse analytic approach is drawn upon (i) to understand the role the language of mainstream economics plays in our discussions of the economy (ii) to trace the key word 'entrepreneur' as it has been and is used in economics and more general talk about the economy (iii) to use a key word approach to create a transdiscipinary understanding of the way the economy is discussed. Findings: Economics in the sense of the mainstream approach that adopts the rational narrowly self-interested calculating decontextualized individual as its default assumption is a very particular language that has detrimentally dominated discussions of the economy. Entrepreneur is a key word, the use of which in economics has both strengthened and put constraints on the way it can be deployed in talking about the economy. Focusing on key words in the language we use can provide a method of gaining transdisciplinary insight. Research limitations/implications: A short article with such a broad sweep such as this no doubts illustrates the limits imposed by attempts at transdiscipinary communication, but a potential gain from any such interaction is that we might get to have more informed and genuinely dialogic interactions about the economy. As another way to attempt communication across diverse positions, looking at key words in the discourse about the economy seems profitable. Originality/value: Discourse analysis of the economy, the entrepreneur and economics has produced many insights but these insights have remained stranded in intellectual niches. As studies of language and economy continue to blossom this article stresses the need, and points to some opportunities, for more fruitful interaction, by adopting a key word approach.