Economics as a preparadigmatic science

Abstract

the aim of this paper is to claim that the current crisis derives from the methodological immaturity of Economics itself. I’ll firstly discuss, following H. Simon, that Economics does not make predictions as physics does, while M. Friedman considers Economics does so. Secondly, following K. Popper’s footprints, I’ll question the ability of Economics’ laws to make prophesies on the future and the history of humankind, as K. Marx suggested. And finally I’ll conclude —taking into account Th. Kuhn’s theory of science— that Economics is a pre-paradigmatic science which has not the necessary tools yet in order to “quantify” human action and, consequently, is unable to predict its behavior in economic terms.