Measurement and value judgments in economics

摘要

Julian Reiss's monograph presents a normative case for an empiricist methodology in economics. According to the author, economists should focus on measuring social variables in order to find causal relationships among them. They should investigate the stability of these relationships in different contexts and, in case it exists, inquire about the underlying abstract factors and establish economic laws. In this process, economists should bear in mind the practical purposes their research is supposed to serve (if there are any) so that the best methods to achieve those aims are always chosen.