Sheila Dow - Why Economists Think How They Think

The video features a conversation with Sheila Dow, exploring her research journey from macroeconomics to the Scottish Enlightenment, focusing on David Hume. Dow discusses the importance of understanding modes of thought in economics, the influence of Hume on economic theory, and the role of behavioral economics in addressing rationality and irrationality. She reflects on her current research on the economic crisis and future plans to delve deeper into modes of thought to foster new economic thinking.

What was Sheila Dow's initial area of research before she shifted her focus?

• Scottish Enlightenment

• International Monetary Reform

• Behavioral Economics

• Logical Positivism

How does Sheila Dow describe the concept of 'modes of thought'?

• As a method of economic forecasting

• As a way to understand subconscious assumptions in economic debates

• As a tool for financial analysis

• As a historical perspective on economic policies

What is a key misunderstanding about David Hume according to Sheila Dow?

• His views on international trade

• His relationship with Adam Smith

• His role in the Scottish Enlightenment

• His influence on logical positivism

What aspect of human behavior does Sheila Dow find unsatisfying in new behavioral economics?

• The lack of psychological insights

• The focus on rationality and irrationality as separate categories

• The reliance on mathematical models

• The emphasis on historical data

How did David Hume's understanding of rationalism influence his philosophical path?

• He became a proponent of logical positivism

• He focused on the limits of rationalism and explored human nature

• He rejected all forms of rational thought

• He developed a new economic model

What is Sheila Dow's current research focus related to the financial crisis?

• Studying historical economic trends

• Analyzing international trade agreements

• Exploring psychology and economics in policy making

• Developing new economic models

What does Sheila Dow propose to focus on in her future research?

• The history of economic crises

• The role of technology in economics

• The meta-methodological level of economic thought

• The development of new financial instruments