Course content

The goal of this course is to provide and introduction to central and fundamental issues in research in the area of economics and business administration, as well as train the ability to reflect critically on key economic concepts. The course provides an introduction to classical topics in philosophy of science, to put knowledge creation in perspective, as well as covering central ethical issues to develop the ability to reflect critically on the mobilization of economic models and economic thinking in practice.

The following topics are central:

Part I: Philosophy of science

• Scientific reasining and explanation
• Explanation, causality and models
• Scientific realism and non-realism
• Scientific change and revolution
• Methodology
• Criticisms of science
• Hermeneutics
• Philosophy of science in conducting the master thesis and student research.
• Case seminar

Part II: Ethics

• Rationality
• Welfare and values
• Markets and morality
• Fair distribution
• Corporate social responsibility
• Sustainability and economic research

Learning outcome

Knowledge

The student should:

• Be able to understand key elements of the philosophy of science from the key separation of positivism and hermeneutics.
• Be able to understand the importance of key theoretical perspectives for research and practical problem solving.
• Know different understandings of key economic concepts which influence in example how society deals with issues such as those of the environment.

Skills

The student should:

• Be able to assess the phiolosophical underpinnings of different research approaches
• Be able to assess research findings critically

Be able to undertake critical analysis of economic models and their underpinnings

General competencies

The student should:

• Be aware of and be able to discus concerns related to the philosophical underpinnings especially relevant to economic and organizational practices.
• Be able to see economic knowledge in a larger, philosophical context and thus be able to contribute to elevate economic actors social responsibility in a broader value based perspective.

Learning methods and activities

Lectures with discussions, case seminars and mandatory assignments.

Compulsory assignments

• Paper

Specific conditions

Required previous knowledge

Bachelor's course in Research Methods, and basic knowledge in ethics corresponding to a minimum of 5 SP (NRØA requirements).

Course materials

Reiss, J. (2013). Philosophy of economics: a contemporary introduction. Routledge.

Selected articles, provided at the start of the semester.

Credit reductions