Direct correspondence to William L. Davis, Professor of Economics, University of Tennessee at Martin, Department of Economics, Martin, TN 38238. This project was produced with generous financial support from the American Institute for Economic Research at Great Barrington, Massachusetts.
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Economists' Opinions of Economists' Work
Article first published online: 19 APR 2007
DOI: 10.1111/j.1536-7150.2007.00511.x
Additional Information
How to Cite
Davis, W. L. (2007), Economists' Opinions of Economists' Work. American Journal of Economics and Sociology, 66: 267–288. doi: 10.1111/j.1536-7150.2007.00511.x
Publication History
- Issue published online: 19 APR 2007
- Article first published online: 19 APR 2007
- Abstract
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Abstract. Economists' credibility has been waning in recent years. Critics usually cite the profession's preoccupation with abstract reasoning and its focus on seemingly irrelevant topics that hold little interest for individuals outside the discipline. While economic science has enormous potential for improving living standards, the profession's adverse reputation is indicative of a discipline seemingly void of any social contribution. This article presents the results of a recently conducted survey of professional economists. The survey was undertaken to ascertain economists' opinions of their own professional work, including the progress of economic research, its usefulness for society, and factors that determine the publication of that research.