The quantitative turn in the history of economics: promises,perils and challenges |
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Authors: | Beatrice Cherrier Andrej Svorenčík |
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Institution: | 1. CNRS and THEMA, University of Cergy-Pontoise, Cergy-Pontoise, Francebeatrice.cherrier@gmail.com;3. Department of Economics, University of Mannheim, Mannheim, Germany |
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Abstract: | ABSTRACTA 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. |
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Keywords: | Quantitative history epistemology historiography prosopography network analysis |
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