What’s Wrong with Economists?

Abstract

Economists, like psychologists, believe that their .expertise lies in the understanding of human motivation. If we know what motivates people then we can use incentives to encourage people to behave in a socially desirable manner. Most economists analyze the world using a set of notions known as the classical model where economic problems are viewed strictly from the perspective of business and personal self-interest; civic values are ignored. Consequently traditional conservative economic policies have a major flaw; they often fail to provide civilized solutions to our pressing economic ills.