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Periodical article | Leiden University catalogue | WorldCat |
Title: | The Changing Popularity of Economics at South African Universities, 1991-1999 |
Author: | Viljoen, R.P. |
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] |