On the current state of German-speaking economics: Paradigmatic orientations and political alignments of German-speaking economists

Abstract

A sample of 708 full professors (Lehrstuhlinhaber_innen) of economics at German-speaking universities (Austria, Germany and Switzerland). Very low percentage of female economists (13%). Dominance of microeconomic research orientation (50.35%). Paradigmatic classification based on two approaches reveals strong dominance of a neoclassical mainstream (91.27% and 76.11%). Heterodox approaches are marginalized and situated at small universities (e.g. Bremen, Darmstadt, Oldenburg, Lüneburg and Jena). Rather strong reference to ordoliberal concepts in Germany (8.04%). Only a minority of German-speaking economists is doing research on the financial crisis (14.45%). The German Economic Association is by far the most important academic association (60% are member of the GEA). A substantial part of German-speaking economists (particularly from those active in economic policy advice) are connected to ordoliberal and German neoliberal think tanks, institutions and initiatives (e.g. Walter Eucken Institute, Kronberger Kreis, INSM or the Hamburger Appell).