Applying Normative Ethics to Teach Economic Concepts: A Proposal

Abstract

Economics is not a value neutral discipline. Teaching economics as a positive social science ignores the intrinsic normative origin and spirit of the discipline. Acknowledging the socio-political challenges inherit in economic decisions contextualizes the presentation of economic, which contributes to student understanding of economics as an academic discipline and informs student civic engagement. This essay applies normative concepts to a variety of economic topics.