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Shira Lewin writes:  "in part it (= neglect of HET) is encouraged 
by the balkanization of economics into subdisciplines, 
among which are theory and history of thought." 
 
But what is the experience of the other social sciences, like 
political science and sociology?  They have experienced 
just as much "balkanization," yet they retain a greater 
appreciation of the history of their disciplines.  Indeed, most 
sociology departments require a firm grounding in the 
discipline's historical foundations. 
 
A more cogent reason is given by Klamer and it is one that I 
have put forth as well on this list.  As long as the incentives 
and rewards are for mathematical mastery, as opposed to a 
broader methodological base that includes HET, there is no 
need for the discipline to pay attention to its history. 
 
Jonathon E. Mote 
The Pew Charitable Trusts 
 
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