The feminist economics project
has made significant strides. This progress is particularly notable as feminist
economics has transitioned from mere critique to establishing the groundwork
for a burgeoning paradigm shift within the discipline. The latest volume,
curated by editors Marianne Ferber and Julie Nelson, features eight chapters
that encapsulate the trajectory of feminist economic research in recent years.
One noteworthy contribution
comes from Paula England, who revisits and updates her seminal work on the
concept of the "separative self" originally discussed in "Beyond
Economic Man" (1993). England not only critiques traditional notions of
the self but also explores newer perspectives on the "soluable self."
She directs attention to emerging literature within economics that challenges
the dichotomous view of the self, offering insights into three key research
streams: household bargaining models, endogenous taste formation, and the study
of care work. This demonstrates a shift towards more nuanced understandings of
human behavior within economic frameworks.
In a subsequent chapter
co-authored with Nancy Folbre, England delves deeper into the analysis of care
economics, bridging feminist theories with new institutionalist approaches.
Their exploration draws inspiration from the institutionalism of Karl Polanyi,
presenting a framework that reframes care as a central component of economic
systems rather than a peripheral concern. This approach not only enriches
economic analysis but also underscores the importance of care in shaping
societal structures and relationships.
Another notable contribution
comes from Lourdes Benerìa, who offers a critical examination of mainstream
development policies while proposing an alternative framework for analyzing
globalization. By drawing upon Polanyi's institutionalist perspective, Benerìa
sheds light on the social and economic implications of globalization,
particularly for marginalized communities. Her work highlights the
interconnectedness of economic, social, and political systems, emphasizing the
need for holistic approaches to understanding and addressing global challenges.
Lisa Saunders and William
Darity, Jr. contribute a pivotal chapter that scrutinizes the evolving dynamics
of race-ethnicity as a social construct and its intricate interplay with
gender. Their analysis underscores the significant strides made since the
publication of "Beyond Economic Man," particularly in elucidating a
multifaceted, interdisciplinary understanding of racial discrimination. This
nuanced approach reflects a maturation in scholarship, characterized by a
transdisciplinary lens that acknowledges the complex intersections of race,
ethnicity, and gender.
For those unacquainted with
the origins and tenets of postcolonial thought, S. Charusheela and Eiman
Zein-Elabdin offer an invaluable primer in their chapter titled “Feminism,
Postcolonial Thought, and Economics.” This chapter serves as an essential
resource, providing readers with a comprehensive overview of postcolonial
theory and its implications for feminist economics. By elucidating the
connections between colonial legacies, gender oppression, and economic
structures, the authors lay the groundwork for a more inclusive and culturally
informed economic discourse.
Julie Nelson ventures into
uncharted territory with her innovative exploration of the "black
box" of the firm. In her chapter, she delves into the realms of business,
organizational behavior, and ethics, challenging conventional economic
assumptions regarding the nature of firms and markets. Nelson's inquiry goes
beyond mere critique; she meticulously examines the relational dynamics within
firms, questioning the pervasive notion of firms as strictly separative
entities. Drawing on insights from management studies, organizational behavior,
law, economic sociology, and business ethics, Nelson proposes an alternative
theoretical framework for understanding firm agency.
Central to Nelson's analysis
is the acknowledgment that firms are not monolithic entities driven solely by
profit maximization. Instead, she emphasizes the inherent complexity and
fluidity of firm behavior, advocating for a "mushier" approach that
recognizes the diverse motivations and relationships shaping organizational
dynamics. By integrating perspectives from multiple disciplines, Nelson offers
a more holistic understanding of firm behavior, one that transcends traditional
economic paradigms and embraces the complexities of real-world business
practices.
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