Epistemological Problems Of Development Economics

Abstract

This article explores some of the epistemological problems that have been neglected in the history of mainstream development economics. The research is focused on how epistemology influences the conception of develop- ment and the role of the economist in development policy. The epistemological foundations of economics and its methodological and theoretical implications were analyzed first. Then, these points of view were connected to explain the rise of development economics as a purely technical field. The main develop-ment theories were contrasted with empirical evidence to reveal their disregard for reality. Furthermore, the Austrian theory of dynamic efficiency was pre-sented to overcome the epistemological problems of development economics. The results helped in redefining the concept of development based on purpose-ful human action. Finally, some patterns of economic progress were identified to challenge the mainstream role of the economist in development policy. Keywords: Epistemology, Positivism, Development, Dynamic Efficiency, Prop-erty rights, Capital-theory JEL Classification: B41, B53, O11, O12 Resumen: Este artículo explora algunos de los problemas epistemológicos que se han descuidado en la historia de la economía del desarrollo convencional. La investigación se centra en cómo la epistemología influye en la concepción del desarrollo y el papel del economista en la política de desarrollo. Primero se analizaron los fundamentos epistemológicos de la economía y sus implica- ciones metodológicas y teóricas. Luego, estos puntos de vista fueron conectados para explicar el surgimiento de la economía del desarrollo como un campo puramente técnico. Las principales teorías del desarrollo fueron con-trastadas con evidencia empírica para revelar su desprecio por la realidad. Además, se presentó la teoría austriaca de la eficiencia dinámica para superar los problemas epistemológicos de la economía del desarrollo. Los resultados ayudaron a redefinir el concepto de desarrollo basado en la acción humana decidida. Finalmente, se identificaron algunos patrones de progreso econó-mico para desafiar el papel convencional del economista en la política de desarrollo. Palabras clave: Epistemología, Positivismo, Desarrollo, Eficiencia Dinámica, Dere-chos de propiedad, Teoría del capital Clasificación JEL: B41, B53, O11, O12

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