======================== HES POSTING =================== 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 ============ FOOTER TO HES POSTING ============ For information, send the message "info HES" to [log in to unmask]