Economic performance and culture in the view of economists : Critical observations from an action-theoretical perspective

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Cappai, Gabriele:
Economic performance and culture in the view of economists : Critical observations from an action-theoretical perspective.
Bayreuth , 2021 . - 20 S.
DOI: https://doi.org/10.15495/EPub_UBT_00005365

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Abstract

In neoclassicist explanations of economic performance actors are usually conceived as utility-maximizers, who make the "best" use of given resources. Constraints are seen as originating mainly through the market or the legal situation. Neo-Institution-Economy (NIE) contrasts this view with the assumption that not only formal but also informal rules in terms of beliefs, values und norms must be an integral part of the model of the actor's behavior. This is the way in which culture enters the scene. One main argument developed in this essay is that important insights of the NIE-representatives are in danger of being compromised. This occurs where the reference to culture degenerates into "culturalism". This essay envisages a possibility of escaping both the culture-blindness of the neoclassic economy as well as the culturalism of the NIE-exponents in a "balanced" conception of action.