The tragic science: how economists cause harm (even as they aspire to do good) by George F. DeMartino

Abstract

Book review: DeMartino, G. F. (2022). The Tragic Science: How economists Cause Harm (Even as They Aspire to Do Good). University of Chicago Press (pp. 272) This paper discusses the book The tragic science: how economists cause harm (even as they aspire to do good) by M. George F. DeMartino. The Author criticizes the moral geometry used by economists to evaluate harm, arguing for a more multifaceted understanding of harm that considers epistemic uncertainty. While the book under review lacks a systematic study of the moral dimension of harm, the Author’s  versatility and scholarship are admirable, making it an inspiring read for both casual readers and professionals in economics and philosophy.