Hur politisk är en ekonom?

Beth Popp Berman's "Thinking Like an Economist" explores the pervasive influence of economic reasoning on American public policy from the 1960s to the present. The book traces how concepts like efficiency, incentives, and trade-offs became dominant in policy debates, often overshadowing considerations of equality and social justice. Berman argues that this shift had significant consequences, particularly for the Democratic Party, limiting its policy options and constraining its ability to address social inequalities. The book offers a critical analysis of the limitations of an exclusively economic approach to policymaking, highlighting the need for a broader perspective that incorporates social values and ethical considerations. Ultimately, it encourages a re-evaluation of how we frame and approach policy challenges.

Theodore Porter's "Trust in Numbers" is a historical analysis exploring the rise of quantification and its impact across various fields. The book examines how numerical data became a dominant force in shaping decisions and understanding in areas like education, medicine, and social policy. Porter delves into the social and political factors that contributed to this shift, highlighting the complexities and potential pitfalls of relying solely on numbers. He also explores how different professions and fields have responded to the increasing influence of quantification, some resisting its encroachment while others readily embrace it. The book offers valuable insights into the power dynamics and consequences of numerical dominance in decision-making processes.