Marianne A FerberJulie A Nelson (ed.), "Feminist Economics Today:Beyond Economic Man" (Book Note)

 

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.