Benti and Changwu Dialogues on Methodology in Economics

by Justin Yifu Lin

This book is a collection of Professor Lin s dialogues with his postgraduate students during a course on transition economics conducted in 2003 and 2004 at Peking University, and it also includes three journal articles as appendices. Taking the form of questions and answers, the book discusses how to conduct economic research in a creative manner and construct one s own theoretical framework and model based on an in-depth analysis of phenomena. The author also emphasizes the importance of economists in China adopting internationally accepted norms in their research and focusing their topics on indigenous problems and reflects critically on the limitations of the existing neoclassical theories for interpreting the development and transition of developing countries. Key Features Authored by one of the best-known Chinese economists Written in a simple format of questions and answers between the professor and his students Discusses how to conduct economic research in a creative manner and construct one s own model based on an in-depth analysis of phenomena Reflects critically on the limitations of the existing neoclassical theories for interpreting the development and transition of developing countries Table of Contents
1. Mainstream Principles and Premises
2. (In)applicability to China
3. Theoretical Innovations in Economics
Appendix 1. Indigenization, Normalization, and Celebration of the 40th Anniversary of Economic Research
Appendix 2. Economic Research Methodology and the Development of Economics in China
Appendix 3. Viability, Economic Transition, and Reflections on Neoclassical Economics

150 pages, Hardcover

First published December 30, 2011

About the author

Justin Yifu Lin is a Chinese economist and former Chief Economist and Senior Vice President of the World Bank.