Where Would Adam Smith Publish Today? An Update on Math-Free Research
19 Pages Posted: 18 Apr 2017
Date Written: April 12, 2017
Abstract
Approximately a decade ago, Sutter and Pjesky (2007) analyzed the near-absence of math-free research in 10 top economics journals for 2003-2004. They found that only a small percentage of published articles in these journals constituted research which might be considered truly math-free. Is this finding still relevant today, and if so, has the trend worsened? The current paper seeks to address this question through an analysis of a fresh batch of 8 top journals from the 2013-2014 period. I find that not only does a similar conclusion hold true today, but in fact, the preponderance of research seems to have shifted towards even more mathematical modes of thought. In addition, I elicit some new observations regarding an increased emphasis on experimental research and field journals.
Keywords: Mathematics, regression analysis, math-free, top economics journals, methodology
JEL Classification: A11, B41
Suggested Citation: Suggested Citation