has been written with more than one audience in mind. In particular, while Parts 1,2 and 3 are all basic to the formulation of the proposed alternative system of economic theory, social economics, it may be that a non-economist, focusing on the methodology of the social sciences, might wish to go directly to Part 2; while a confirmed neoclassical economist, curious about what this book can say that is new about that paradigm, may wish to begin with part 3. In the economic area, this book will take up some topics central to neoclassical economics. Neoclassical economics itself, as a system of economic theory, will also be discussed. More space, however, will be given to the economic issues which are insufficiently addressed by either neoclassical or Marxian economics. More broadly, a number of issues will be examined which are of concern for the social sciences in general. It is therefore hoped that this book will also find readers among non-economists who have a stake in other social sciences. Subjects of public policy will not be addressed directly; however, some of the motivation for the book comes from the perception that economic systems (both capitalist and communist), and the social realities that accompany them, have been changing faster than theory has been able to keep up. (This motivation is most openly expressed at the end of chapter 4.) The book represents, in part, an attempt to project the beginnings of a system of economic theory that will be appropriate to contemporary realities. The first two Parts of the book, then, are designed to be read by economists and also by other individuals interested in the social sciences and their interactions with the real world. hence an effort has been made to communicate in a language which is not specialized to one discipline. Relatively few technical terms have been used; where they appear, they are explained in the notes.

Hide more