Econometrics as a Con Art

Imad Moosa challenges convention with this comprehensive and compelling critique of econometrics, condemning the common practices of misapplied statistical methods in both economics and finance.

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Imad Moosa challenges convention with this comprehensive and compelling critique of the limitations and abuses of econometrics, condemning the common practices of misapplied statistical methods in both economics and finance. After reviewing the Keynesian, Austrian and mainstream criticisms of econometrics, it is demonstrated that by using standard econometric techniques, methods and models can be manipulated to produce any desired result. These hazardous analyses may then be relied upon to support flawed policy recommendations, ideological beliefs and private interests. Moosa proposes that the way forward should instead be to rely on clear thinking, intuition and common sense rather than continue with the reliance upon econometrics. The mathematization of economics has limited the accessibility and participation in economic discussion by making the area into a complex `science' when it should not be.

Appealing to both academics and practitioners of economics and finance, this book serves to challenge the acceptance of econometrics as offering trustworthy analysis. Any individual interested in this sort of empirical work will find this book a captivating read on the limitations of econometrics.