Conceptual framework and language for sustainability politics

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DOI:

https://doi.org/10.54337/ojs.bess.v5i1.8135

Abstract

Where do politicians and other actors get their ideas about economics and efficiency? While there are many relevant sources, economics education has a significant role. However, the kind of economics presented in a university context is limited to one paradigm, neoclassical theory. While this paradigm is mainly compatible with the present political-economic system and is therefore legitimate, it is failing to confront the challenges faced by society. One such urgent challenge is global sustainable development. In this article, ecological economics as a conceptual framework and language is presented and compared with the conceptual framework of neoclassical theory and method. This is achieved within a perspective of pluralism where ‘paradigm-coexistence’ is a central element.

Author Biography

Prof Peter Söderbaum, Mälardalen University

Prof Peter Söderbaum is professor emeritus in ecological economics at Mälardalen University, Västerås, Sweden. He is the author of several books, including Economics, ideological orientation and democracy for sustainable development (2nd edition, 2018, WEA Books), Ecological Economics (Earthscan, 2000) and Understanding Sustainability Economics (Earthscan, 2008). He is member of the editorial advisory board of Ecological Economics and International Journal of Pluralism and Economics Education.

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Published

24-11-2023

Issue

Vol. 5 No. 1 (2023): Journal of Behavioural Economics and Social Systems

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Articles

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Copyright (c) 2023 Prof Peter Söderbaum

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