I have arrived at the conviction that the neglect by…
“I have arrived at the conviction that the neglect by economists to discuss seriously what is really the crucial problem of our time is due to a certain timidity about soiling their hands by going from purely scientific questions into value questions.”
About This Quote
This interpretation was drafted with AI assistance. It is one reading of the quote, not the author's own explanation.
Economists avoid value-laden questions because they fear compromising scientific objectivity, leading to neglect of crucial societal issues.
In simple terms: Economists shy from moral questions, missing big problems.
Key Takeaway
Embrace interdisciplinary inquiry.
Themes
economics
ethics
public policy
Mood
thoughtful
critical
Type
philosophical
analytical
When to use this quote
- policy analysis
- academic research
- public debate
Key Concepts
value theory
normative economics
Questions to Reflect On
- How can economists integrate ethical considerations without losing rigor?
- What incentives could encourage value‑focused research?
A Different Perspective
Scholars may lack training in moral philosophy.