Overview
In this study, Robert H. Nelson explores the genesis, the prophets, the prophesies, and the tenets of what he sees as a religion of economics that has come into full blossom in latter-day America. Nelson does not see "theology" as a bad word, and his examination of the theology underlying Samuelsonian and Chicagoan economics is not a put-down. It is a way of seeing the rhetoric of fundamental belief—what has been called "vision."
Editorials
Booknews
Nelson (public affairs, U. of Maryland) continues the discussion begun in his 1991 book . He begins by examining the values of the American Progressive movement at the end of the 19th century and the early part of the 20th; then he examines theological messages in Samulson's , discusses the "gods of Chicago" (Knight, Friedman, and Stigler), and looks at religion and the "new institutional economics." He explores the idea that "a new appreciation of the economic significance of religious beliefs, may...point the way to the future of economics in the twenty-first century" and develops the view that economists have had a "special religious task to find a satisfactory moral resolution to `the market paradox'"<-->from his introduction. This study is written for economists, political scientists, and philosophers, but it is accessible to serious general readers as well. Annotation c. Book News, Inc., Portland, OR (booknews.com)From the Publisher
“As a history of modern neoclassical economic theory, [Nelson’s book] is exemplary. An exceedingly well-written book.”
—Journal of Economic Issues
“Nelson provides a huge service to students of religion in his attempts to place economics . . . in conversation with theology.”
—Christian Century
“Nelson has wide experience applying economics to public policy.”
—Science and Theology News
“Deeply enriching and fascinating book.”
—Adrienne Clarkson, Governor General of Canada
“Nelson's book is a challenge to economists to see their field anew.”
—Eileen Ciesla, American Enterprise