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Article
Research Programs, Model-building and Actor-network-theory: Reassessing the Case of the Leontief Paradox
Journal of Economic Methodology (2004)
  • Sharon Shewmake, Western Washington University
  • Justin Bledin
Abstract
Methodology of scientific research programs (MSRP), model-building and actor-network-theory (ANT) are woven together to provide a layered study of the Leontief paradox. Neil De Marchi's Lakatosian account examined the paradox within an Ohlin-Samuelson research program. A model-building approach rather highlights the ability of Leontief's input-output model to mediate between international trade theory and the world by facilitating an empirical application of the Heckscher-Ohlin Theorem. The epistemological implications of this model-building approach provide an alternative explanation of why Samuelson and other prominent economists ignored the paradox. By focusing on the network in which input-output analysis evolved, Bruno Latour's ANT further explains the response of international trade theorists.
Keywords
  • Leontief paradox,
  • Heckscher-Ohlin Theory,
  • Research programs,
  • Models as mediators,
  • Actor-network-theory
Disciplines
Publication Date
2004
Publisher Statement
DOI:10.1080/1350178042000280630
Citation Information
Sharon Shewmake and Justin Bledin. "Research Programs, Model-building and Actor-network-theory: Reassessing the Case of the Leontief Paradox" Journal of Economic Methodology Vol. 11 Iss. 4 (2004)
Available at: http://works.bepress.com/sharon_shewmake/10/