The quantitative turn in the history of economics: promises, perils and challenges. Issue 4 (2nd October 2018)

• Record Type: Journal Article
• Authors: Cherrier, Beatrice; Svorenčík, Andrej
• Is Part Of: Journal of economic methodology. Volume 25:Issue 4(2018)
• Page Start: 367
• Page End: 377
• Publication Date: 2018-10-02
• Subjects: Quantitative history -- epistemology -- historiography -- prosopography -- network analysis; Economics -- Methodology -- Periodicals; 330.072
• DOI: 10.1080/1350178X.2018.1529217
• Languages: English
• ISSNs: 1350-178X

Abstract

ABSTRACT: A quantitative turn in history of economic thought is looming. We argue that engineering it consciously is of crucial importance for historians of economics. We also highlight the limitations of quantitative techniques. Yet, the combination of qualitative and quantitative research could substantially enrich our narratives of the development of economics and its practice, of how ideas and tools disseminate and influence other spheres. A failed quantitative turn could lead our field to a house divided and, in the worst case, a civil war.