Definitions of economics have varied over time from the modern origins of the subject, reflecting programmatic concerns and distinctions of expositors.
In the rare cases that attempts at ontological shifts gain wide acceptance, their ripple effects can spread throughout the entire field of economics.
Philosophers of science and economists have explored these issues intensively since the work of Alexander Rosenberg and Daniel M. Hausman dating to 3 decades ago.
Economic systems as a product of collective activity allow examination of their ethical consequences for all of their participants.
Approaches are regarded as more philosophical when they study the fundamentals – for example, John Rawls' A Theory of Justice (1971)[12] and Robert Nozick's Anarchy, State and Utopia (1974).
"Practical" matters include such subjects as law[14] and cost–benefit analysis[15] Utilitarianism, one of the ethical methodologies, has its origins inextricably interwoven with the emergence of modern economic thought.
Marx, for example, is generally regarded primarily as a philosopher, his most notable work being on the philosophy of economics.
The foundations and assumption of economics have been questioned from the perspective of noteworthy but typically under-represented groups.
These degrees cover many of the problems that are discussed in Philosophy and Economics, but are more broadly construed.