On Social Orders and Ways to Comprehend and Construct Them (about the new book by V. M. Efimov)

Abstract

Mr. Efimov develops an application of the methodology of pragmatism of J. Dewey in Economic Research. The application of this methodology is presented in his book in the traditions of «original» institutionalism developed by J. Commons and the German Historical and Ethical School of G. Schmoller. The author critically examines the main current of modern economic thought, namely, the new institutional theory. His book shows the apologetic and anti-scientific nature of the latter. The fundamental innovation of the book under discussion is consideration of monetary social orders, in which power is manifested through the institution of money, as opposed to patronal orders, in which power is manifested directly. Institutions are interpreted as customary rules, behind which there are beliefs and thoughts. The money, by its nature, is a proof of debt. It requires consideration of the role of payment communities, their role in the creation and use of money as an instrument of power. The review considers issues that require further development within the framework of the scientific topics raised in the book. In particular, it is proposed to consider the following issues: the development of an experimental approach in economic research, improving the training of researchers in economicс science, and a number of others.