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Periodical article Periodical article Leiden University catalogue Leiden University catalogue WorldCat catalogue WorldCat
Title:The Changing Popularity of Economics at South African Universities, 1991-1999
Author:Viljoen, R.P.ISNI
Year:2005
Periodical:South African Journal of Economic History
Volume:20
Issue:2
Period:September
Pages:131-144
Language:English
Geographic term:South Africa
Subjects:economics education
universities
1990-1999
Education and Oral Traditions
Economics and Trade
External link:https://doi.org/10.1080/10113430509511189
Abstract:The rise of econometrics and the mathematization of economics have damaged the reputation of economics in the English-speaking world. It appears to have taken the individual out of the economic processes without providing clear guidance either to individuals or governments. This decline in popularity has also filtered through to enrolments at university level in various countries. The present article contrasts the rising popularity of economics at South African universities with the declining interest internationally. It finds that the local increase is mainly the result of the popularity of economics among Black students and is a function of employment opportunities and the role played by the government's policy of affirmative action. On the other hand, White students, like their international counterparts, are increasingly turning towards other fields of study. The article concludes that until the time arrives when Black students also move in increasing numbers into professional occupations, economics is likely to remain a popular subject in South Africa. Ref. [ASC Leiden abstract]
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