metaeconomics

Metaeconomics is a field of study that examines the fundamental assumptions, methodologies, and philosophical underpinnings of economics. It seeks to understand how economic theories are constructed, what constitutes valid economic knowledge, and the ethical implications of economic practices. Rather than focusing on specific economic phenomena like inflation or unemployment, metaeconomics delves into the "why" and "how" of economic inquiry itself.

Key areas within metaeconomics include epistemology, which questions the nature of economic knowledge and how it is acquired; ontology, which explores what exists in the economic world and what concepts are meaningful; and methodology, which scrutinizes the tools and techniques economists use, such as mathematical modeling, statistical analysis, and experimental design. It also considers the role of values and ethics in economic research and policy.

The field often engages with debates about the scientific status of economics, its relationship with other disciplines, and the limitations of economic models in representing complex human behavior and social systems. Metaeconomics encourages critical reflection on the prevailing paradigms within economics and fosters a deeper understanding of the discipline's strengths and weaknesses.