Model Coupling in Resource Economics: Conditions for Effective Interdisciplinary Collaboration

Abstract

In this article we argue for the importance of studying interdisciplinary collaborations by focusing on the role that good choice and design of model-building frameworks and strategies can play overcoming the inherent difficulties of collaborative research. We provide an empirical study of particular collaborations between economists and ecologists in resource economics. We discuss various features of how models are put together for interdisciplinary collaboration in these cases and show how the use of a coupled-model framework in this case to coordinate and combine background models from ecology and economics provided particular collaborative affordances and clear collaborative gain.

Understanding Perspectivism

“…. Empirical studies of interdisciplinary research ( Shrum, Genuth, and Chompalov 2007 ;Gerson 2013 ;MacLeod and Nagatsu 2016 ;MacLeod 2018 ) suggest that efforts at "wholesale" integration across specializations are often unsuccessful. More restricted connections, leaving most specialized practices unchanged, are associated with better outcomes.…”

Revamping the Image of Science for the Anthropocene

“…In this regard, one potentially helpful way forward is to take lessons from recent philosophy of science that has specifically addressed the reasons behind successful interdisciplinary work (see special issues : Brigandt 2013;Grüne-Yanoff and Mäki 2014;De Grandis and Efstathiou 2016). Collaborative gains are not always self-evident, and the ability to perceive them is itself an epistemic virtue that should be fostered explicitly (Macleod and Nagatsu 2016). Moreover, scholars should not underestimate the significance of articulating a new and shared image for how science in the Anthropocene should operate.…”

Applying Experimental Philosophy to Investigate Economic Concepts: Choice, Preference, and Nudge

“…12 See Wagenknecht, Nersessian, and Andersen (2015) for a general discussion of qualitative approach in philosophy of science. MacLeod and Nagatsu ( 2016 demonstrate the value of such methods in studying conditions for successful interdisciplinary model-building involving economists and ecologists.…”