Ontic Structural REalism and Economics

Ross, Don (2006) Ontic Structural REalism and Economics. In [2006] Philosophy of Science Assoc. 20th Biennial Mtg (Vancouver): PSA 2006 Contributed Papers.

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Abstract

Ontic structural realism (OSR) as defended in the philosophy of science literature to date is crucially motivated by premises citing empirical discoveries of fundamental physics. To this extent its potential to furnish a general metaphysics for science will appear limited. However, this paper argues that OSR also provides a good account of the progress that has been achieved over the decades in a highly formalized special science, economics. Furthermore, it is claimed, this has a basis in the ontology presupposed by economic theory, and is not just an artifact of the fact that economic theory is formalized.

Keywords:structuralism, economics
Subjects:Specific Sciences: Economics
Conferences and Volumes:[2006] Philosophy of Science Assoc. 20th Biennial Mtg (Vancouver): PSA 2006 Contributed Papers
ID Code:3045
Deposited By:Ross, Don
Deposited On:17 November 2006
Additional Information:Paper presented at symposium on Ontic Structural Realism and Special Sciences, PSA 2006