bluuebunny/crossref_metadata_2025 huggingface dataset:
Doctors and management ‐ the development dilemma
Authors: Gatrell John , White Tony
Published: July 2002

Identifies managerial knowledge and skills from undergraduate to medical director level and considers the development of a core management training strategy and development programme, transferable on a national basis. Reports on a questionnaire survey plus in‐depth interviews with doctors and senior managers divided between grades covering hospitals, general practices and public health services. Explains that the model evolved is a synthesis of managerial models set in the context of doctors’ work. Concludes that doctors agreed that more support and training from their organizations would have been useful, and that managers were generally supportive of doctors becoming involved in management, although some harboured doubts about their willingness or the effects such moves would have on established management career structures. Contends that there appears to be a 30:70 split between doctors receptive to the concept of management and those against.
General practice partnerships: an exploratory review
Authors: Newton John , Eccles Martin , Soutter Jennifer
Published: July 2002

Presents the results of a literature review on general practice partnerships. The objective was to find out what has been written and by whom. The results of the review indicate that very little empirical work has been carried out and most of the publications are by doctors addressing the practical problems of working in partnerships. Given this paucity of material, goes on to discuss relevant literature from social science disciplines and presents five perspectives on partnerships. Each perspective yields questions worthy of further investigation particularly at a time when primary care is experiencing rapid change and development.
Practical public health in a primary care setting
Authors: Ayres Philip J. , Pollock Colin T. , Wilson Alison , Fox Paul , Tabner Tony , Hanney Ivan
Published: July 2002

Investigates a mechanism for delivering public health advice in a primary care setting ‐ three West Yorkshire general practices ‐ by seconding a public health physician (PHP) to each practice for six months, each practice receiving one day per week. Describes how the topics to be addressed ‐ developing a practice plan for managing information; improving services available for Asian patients; and exploring “value for money” in fundholding ‐ were chosen. Details the procedures and lists the main outcomes. Concludes that placing a public health physician in practices may not be the optimal approach for transferring public health knowledge, but topics important to the practice lend themselves to such an intervention, with potential long‐term benefit for public health and primary care.
Re‐engineering operating theatres: the perspective assessed
Authors: Buchanan Dave , Wilson Bob
Published: July 2002

Refers to the widely experienced and appreciated difficulties in scheduling hospital operating theatres to make effective use of resources, and to avoid delays and overruns that can adversely affect patient care and staff morale. Reports the findings and recommendations of a project based in the Surgical Directorate of Leicester General Hospital NHS Trust which sought to address these problems from a business process re‐engineering perspective. Covering the whole patient trail, from referral to discharge describes the project’s progress through four phases concerning process mapping, the collection of staff opinions and ideas through a combination of interviews and surveys, collection of data on patient flows and procedure times, and a final “handover” phase in which broad recommendations were passed back to the Surgical Directorate for implementation with staff involvement. Details the recommendations which include a shift to cross‐functional teamworking in a number of areas, along with the development of a revised theatres policy and a strengthened theatres co‐ordination function. In view of recent substantial and harsh criticisms of the re‐engineering perspective, seeks to offer a balanced assessment of the perspective applied to a health care setting, exploring both the problems and benefits.
Understanding practice management: a qualitative study in general practice
Authors: Westland Marlene , Grimshaw Jeremy , Maitland Jim , Campbell Maureen , Ledingham Edna , Mcleod Ellie
Published: July 2002

Reports a qualitative study of practice managers’ roles and responsibilities in eight practices in the Grampian region of Scotland. Observes wide variations in the roles and responsibilities of managers associated with the size and fundholding status of the practice. Notes that larger practices had better developed management structures allowing the managers to delegate tasks and undertake a more proactive planning and executive role, and that medium and smaller practices had less well developed management structures and managers were more likely to act as practice administrators with limited autonomy. Concludes that practice managers are playing an increasingly important role in general practice. Also that the influential role of the practice manager in the development of practice policies and the transfer of administrative responsibilities from the partners to the manager have all contributed to a change in general practitioners’ perceptions of the practice manager.
The value of an outcomes information resource
Authors: Greenhalgh Joanne , Long Andrew F. , Brettle Alison , Grant Maria J.
Published: July 2002

Reports on the first phase of an evaluation of the UK Clearing House on Health Outcomes (UKCHHO) undertaken by a sample survey of purchasers and providers on its mailing list and users of its enquiry service. Explores user satisfaction with the services and publications of the project, uses made of the information provided and perceptions of the future role of a UKCHHO. Reports overwhelming satisfaction with the enquiry service and agreement about the usefulness of Outcomes Briefing. States that the main areas of use for the information provided were within clinical audit, guidelines and the exploration of outcomes within routine clinical practice. Also that the findings provide evidence of the need for an expanded brief for a UKCHHO, to include the provision of an enquiry service on study design and demonstrations of the value of the collection of outcomes data. Notes there is an urgent need to show that the systematic collection and use of outcomes data makes a difference to the quality of care provided to patients and to the purchase of services.
The lights are bright? Debating the future of the permanent night shift
Authors: Brooks Ian
Published: July 2002

Debates a controversial issue in healthcare management, that is, whether internal rotation (day‐night) or permanent night shifts is an appropriate shift system for nursing staff. A multidisciplinary approach draws together international research from the fields of occupational psychology, management, ergonomics and medicine. Explores evidence on sleep, physical and mental health, job satisfaction, performance, absenteeism, and social and domestic disruption, all important factors in considering appropriate shift patterns. Suggests that both nurse choice (or non‐choice) of shift and adjustment, or otherwise, of circadian rhythms are important causal factors influencing the debate. As no unequivocal picture emerges, recognizes some of the real and potential limitations of a paper of this kind; however, the balance of argument tends to favour the maintenance of permanent night shift nurses as opposed to the further extension of internal rotation systems. This is especially the case as many nurses will still be given a choice of shift pattern which may, in itself, negate some of the potential ill‐effects of night working. Decisions further to extend internal rotation may, in the light of the complex, ambiguous and equivocal evidence, be informed by partial knowledge and influenced by a managerial perspective.
Problem solving: a comparison between medical and military art
Authors: Bricknell M.C.M.
Published: July 2002

Compares the methodology of the medical decision‐making process with that of the military. The key to both professions is reliable, efficient decision making. Effective decision makers use the hypothetical‐deductive approach which utilizes intuition to generate ideas which are tested by the available evidence. Medicine is developing a holistic, conceptual and student‐centred education process which compares with the more rigid, external system of military training. The military system has a better methodology for communication both verbally and in writing than medicine. Suggests that both professions may benefit from an examination of each professional culture.
Is the quality of health care changing? GPs’ views
Authors: Hogarth‐Scott Sandra , Wright Gillian
Published: July 2002

Examines the debate on quality in health care in light of GP fundholding and the Patients’ charter. Focuses on the development of quality issues in General Practice by carrying out research based on two stages: first, an exploratory stage aimed at the understanding of key issues; and second, a questionnaire made up primarily of attitude elements drawn from stage one. Concludes that, in the changing political and public environment, GPs are facing the challenges of managing service quality.
A decision analytic approach to commissioning ambulance cardiac services
Authors: Dowie Robin , Gregory Richard P.F. , Rowsell Kathleen V. , Annis Shân , Gick A.D. , Harrison Christopher J.
Published: July 2002

The paper discusses how a decision analytic framework has been used by an English health authority in relation to the commissioning of ambulance cardiac services. Strategies for the management by ambulance personnel of victims of cardiac arrest and persons with acute chest pain of cardiac origin were modelled in a decision‐event tree, and a bibliographic database established. The international research literature prior to 1997 was searched in order to derive probability values for the tree. However, after checking whether the sub‐groupings of results in the papers were in accordance with the variables in the tree, the number of useful papers on acute chest pain was found to be only two. In the almost complete absence of information ‐ even from small observational studies ‐ on the management of the great majority of patients with cardiac symptoms transported by ambulance, the local ambulance service and the main providers of hospital services in the district are now collaborating in field studies of cardiac care in order to improve the inputs into the model.
Role of the consultant obstetrician in the delivery suite
Authors: Hackett Mark , Gee Harry
Published: July 2002

The role of consultant obstetricians is under considerable debate. This has particularly focused on the role of consultants in intrapartum care. The article explores the role of the consultant in delivery suite from the view point of a consultant, a clinical director, a training programme director and a chief executive. These viewpoints determine a range of common themes which mean the duties of consultants over their career lifecycle need to be addressed; the need to expand consultant posts; and the tensions which inevitably occur. The authors believe these need to be addressed because of the need to ensure consultant roles in delivery suite are developed as a key part of seeing quality improvement.
Developing “out of hours” primary health care
Authors: Shaw Sara , Milewa Timothy
Published: July 2002

The issue of “out of hours” provision of primary care services by family doctors has excited particularly marked debate in the UK. This article considers the implications for this debate of results from a project designed to elicit the views of users of out of hours primary care provision. Focus groups were used to gauge definitions of “out of hours” services, factors governing the use of some services rather than others and influences on the evaluation of different options. The centrality accorded by patients to the social dimensions of a more “traditional” relationship with family doctors was central to the selection and evaluation of alternative provision. Any significant initiative in the reconfiguration of local health care services might thus be regarded as much a social enterprise as a technical challenge based on the most equitable and efficient application of resources.
Managing evidence‐based health care: a diagnostic framework
Authors: Newman Karin , Pyne Tanya , Cowling Alan
Published: July 2002

This paper proposes a diagnostic framework useful to Trust managers who are faced with the task of devising and implementing strategies for improvements in clinical effectiveness, and is based on a recent study incorporating clinicians, managers, and professional staff in four NHS Trusts in the North Thames Region. The gap framework is inspired by the gap model developed by Zeithaml, Parasuraman and Berry from their research into service quality and incorporates Dave Sackett’s schema as well as a personal competency profile needed for the practice of evidence based health‐care (EBHC). The paper highlights the four organisational and personal failures (gaps) which contribute to the fifth gap, namely the discrepancy between clinically relevant research evidence and its implement‐ation in health care. To close the gaps, Trusts need to set the goal and tackle the cultural, organisational, attitudinal and more material aspects such as investment in the information infrastructure, education and training of doctors. Doctors need to go through a process from awareness to action facilitated through a combination of personal and organisational incentives and rewards as well as training in the requisite skills. Researchers should take steps to improve the quality of the evidence and its accessibility and purchasers should reinforce the use of EBHC by withdrawing funding for care which has proved to be ineffective, inappropriate or inferior.
From contracts to service agreements: what can be learned from total purchasing?
Authors: Robison Judy
Published: July 2002

Total purchasing is an experimental extension of GP fundholding through which GP practices can purchase community, secondary and tertiary services not included in standard fundholding budgets, for their registered patient populations. The paper presents selected findings from a study of contracting by TPPs during the first year of purchasing, concentrating on the perceived relationship between aspects of the contracting process and the achievement of TPPs’ strategic objectives. These findings are of relevance to the development of commissioning by primary care groups in light of the Government’s proposal that contracts be replaced by long‐term service agreements as competition within the NHS internal market is replaced by more collaborative arrangements between commissioners and providers. The paper identifies features of the contracting process which have been instrumental to the achievement of TPPs’ service development objectives and may need to be preserved to ensure effective commissioning within the context of the new service agreements.
Taking the lead in fundholding
Authors: Cowton Christopher J. , Drake Julie E.
Published: July 2002

The prevalence of rather negative, or at best mixed, attitudes of doctors towards participation in management has been reported in several previous research studies. This paper adds to that growing empirical literature, but complements most of the previous studies by focusing on general medical practitioners in primary care rather than on doctors in secondary care settings. The focus for the study were doctors who had agreed to undertake the lead partner role in the now‐defunct general practitioner fundholding initiative within the UK National Health Service. The findings indicate widespread reluctance but the presence of a minority of enthusiasts, which resonates with previous studies of secondary care settings. A finding of potential significance for future research and practice was that some doctors who were initially reluctant became more keen on undertaking a management role once they had experienced it.
Opinion – After the internal market: public ownership or poisoned chalice?
Authors: Jones Norman
Published: July 2002

This article examines the reasons why the internal market failed to gain public acceptance and looks beyond the popular view which argued the non‐acceptance was a result of the “two tier” service and increased bureaucracy. It compares the experience of customers in the internal market with those of other public services that have undergone pritatisation. The article concludes that differences in the range and pattern of the services provided by the NHS led the public to a lower level of understanding regarding improvements and efficiency. The benefits of the market in other once public services were more transparent and there were greater incentives to accept the change. The article recommends that the clinicians involved in the management of primary care groups should learn the lessons of the internal market because users are ill‐equipped for the next stage of healthcare reform as they were for the last.
Limits to employee empowerment in the UK NHS
Authors: Procter Stephen , Currie Graeme , Orme Helen
Published: July 2002

The concern of this paper lies with empowerment of middle managers in a community health trust. It considers the impact of traditional structures and cultures upon the level of decision which middle managers are empowered to make. The conclusion reached is one which suggests that the level of discretion available to middle managers was one of making task‐oriented decisions rather than decisions about strategic change. However, even this was compromised by financial constraints and by “best practices” imposed by the personnel function.
Analysis and comparison of WLCSP‐on‐build‐up PCB assemblies with various solders and microvia configurations
Authors: Ricky Lee S.‐W. , Lau John H.
Published: July 2002

In this paper, a computational analysis is presented for the comparison of wafer level chip scale package‐on‐build‐up PCB assemblies with various solders and microvia configurations. The printed circuit board of the assembly has one build‐up layer on one side. For comparison, the board with two build‐up layers on the same side is studied as well. Furthermore, two solder joint materials, namely, 62Sn–2Ag–36Pb and 96.5Sn–3.5Ag are studied for comparison. The assembly is simulated by a finite element model and the model is analyzed under thermal cyclic loading. A comprehensive stress analysis is performed and comparisons are made for assembly deformation, stress/strain ranges, and creep responses.
The applicability of electrodeposited photoresists in producing ultra‐fine lines using sputtered seeding layers
Authors: Jalonen Paavo , Tuominen Aulis
Published: July 2002

Photolithographic techniques are universally employed in multi‐layer printed circuit board manufacturing. The growing demand for miniaturization of electronics means that finer lines and smaller vias are increasingly required and these very fine lines on the substrate are increasingly difficult to produce by conventional means. One very promising means of meeting these fine line requirements is via the etching of sputtered thin films on a substrate and then growing copper on these lines using an additive method. In this work we tested the capability of an electrodeposited, positive‐acting photoresist for patterning thin film circuits on sputtered seed layers such as chromium. A fully additive electroless copper was then used to produce the copper lines. Epoxy reinforced fibreglass was used as a core material. The performance and quality properties of the process were examined, along with limitations of the process when compared with both a conventional dry film method and a spin coating method.
Saint Mary of the Contra, Our Lady of Oliver North
Authors: Thorpe Andy , Bennett Elizabeth
Published: July 2002

This paper traces the evolution of (Catholic) church‐state relations from Nicaraguan independence through to 1998, showing how a symbiotic relationship has emerged whereby one makes recourse to the other in order to justify its existence and provide it with moral authority. This relationship, however, has been threatened on a number of occasions. First, by the advent of liberation theology during the Somoza period, second by the increasing secularisation of the FSLN regime during the 1980s. Recent years have seen the Catholic Church recapture its previous authoritative position in the national political arena, although increasing voter apathy and the growth of the Protestant Church movement could again threaten its position.
Economics and university life: further reflections and experiences of Clem Tisdell
Authors: Tisdell Clem
Published: July 2002

Outlines and analyses critically the changing nature of the administration and management of universities, particularly in Australia. Special attention is given to the emerging corporate and commercial character of universities, taking into account principles of economic management. Changes in economics as taught at university‐level are discussed along with the declining status of many economics departments. Strategies which I have used to counteract threats to university economics are outlined. Just as globalisation has been increasingly stressed in recent years as an imperative for business, it has become a dominant theme of Australian universities, partly for commercial reasons. This “new” emphasis is, however, ironic, as explained. Following some critical comments on the approaches of Australian universities to internationalization, the essay outlines some of my substantial international activities in the last two years.
An economist conversant with management: Clem A. Tisdell
Authors: Bruce Kyle
Published: July 2002

Throughout his illustrious career Professor Clem Tisdell has displayed a holistic sense of scholarship rare amongst contemporary economists. Tisdell has been prepared to look both within and beyond his discipline and maintain a critical but balanced assessment of the shortcomings of mainstream microeconomic theory and the offerings of rival research programs on a broad range of economic issues, not the least of which includes the focus of this paper, business management. Having a penchant for Marshallian, “fieldwork‐driven” industrial economics and practical application of micro theory, Tisdell has traversed a range of topics of interest to management scholars including management motivation, R&D effort, business strategy, and institutional arrangements making for positive externalities and technology transfer. It is argued that this makes for a better “conversation” or dialogue between economists and management analysts, particularly strategy scholars, as both essentially have at heart a similar explanandum: the nature and causes of value and wealth creation conceived both in micro and in macroeconomic contexts.
Safety and socio‐economic issues raised by modern biotechnology
Authors: Xue Dayuan , Tisdell Clem
Published: July 2002

Modern new biotechnology has the potential to provide major economic and other benefits, but at the same time it poses potential hazards for human health, the environment, the “natural” biological order, and can have adverse socio‐economic consequences. The application of such technology frequently violates traditional ethical, moral and religious values. This paper, after outlining possible benefits of modern new biotechnologies, discusses the type of biosafety risks which they pose, their possible adverse consequences for the sustainability of biodiversity and agriculture and their potential impacts on socioeconomic welfare and traditional cultures. Particular concern is expressed about the possible consequences of such technologies for developing countries and the practice in some developed countries of issuing patents conferring very broad rights over the use of genetically engineered material. Because these rights are so broad, in some cases they have the potential to establish powerful multinational monopolies in the hands of private companies. Global debate about these issues suggests that more emphasis should be given globally to the socio‐economic consequences of such technology than in the past. The need for this is highlighted by the North‐South divide. Developing countries lag considerably in this new technological field, are placed in a dependent position and have weak institutional structures to control the application of such technology.
Economic efficiency and investment potential in the smallholder crop sector in Malawi
Authors: Mangisoni Julius H.
Published: July 2002

The crop sector in Malawi faces a number of constraints which must be overcome before agriculture can reach its full potential. This paper uses the policy analysis matrix (PAM) to assess efficiency in the crop sector and financial analysis to explore the potential of investing in a fruit juice extraction plant in Malawi. The PAM revealed that farmers in Malawi are efficient producers but they face negative incentives in the production and marketing of their products. The nominal protection coefficients (NPCs) for both maize and beans were less than 1 while those of inputs were more than 1. Similarly, the effective protection coefficients (EPCs) were less than 1, implying that the combined effect of transfers and tradable inputs is reducing the private profitability of the systems. On the other hand, the financial analysis demonstrated that Malawi can sustain a fruit juice extraction plant. The project had a positive net present value and a benefit/cost ratio greater than 1 (1.16). Recommendations made from the study relate to the need for diversification into fruits that can sustain a fruit juice extraction plant, encouraging private sector participation and reducing disincentives to crop production.
A new perspective on the role of the government in economic development
Authors: Fu‐Lai Yu Tony
Published: July 2002

Provides a new perspective on the role of the government in economic affairs. Utilising recent advances in the evolutionary theories of the firm, the coordination function of the government is emphasised. This paper argues that the government possesses certain unique features that allow it to restrict competition, and provide stable and reliable conditions under which firms organise, compete, cooperate and exchange. The coordinating perspective is employed to re‐examine the arguments for industrial policies regarding private investment decisions, market competition, diffusion of technologies and tariff protection on infant industries. This paper concludes that dynamic private enterprises assisted by government coordination policies explains the rapid economic growths in post‐war Japan and the Asian newly industrialising economies.
The nature of optimal public policy
Authors: Sang Ho Lok
Published: July 2002

The design of public policy must take human nature as an immutable constraint, both with a view to choosing the appropriate policy objectives and in regard to the human response and hence the effects of the policy. Once human nature is seen in the proper light and the multiple needs of society are recognized, it is not difficult to see the logic of a hierarchy of policy objectives with some being treated as tentative constraints and others as “maximands.” Optimal public policy making in the short term would treat those constraints as given but over the longer term the constraints themselves are also subject to revision by the “policy coordination centre.” Throughout this iterative process, public policy analysts will have done a great service if they can lay bare the trade‐off among conflicting policy goals and the relationship between policy choice parameters and policy target variables.
Ontological (empirical) foundations of sociological economics
Authors: Zafirovski Milan
Published: July 2002

The paper argues in favor of reestablishing sociological or social economics as a legitimate discipline of economic science. Conspires toward undertaking analyses of the social co‐determination of economic behaviors, variables and systems. Suggests the need for incorporation of sociological/social economics in the existing semi‐official (JEL) taxonomy of economic fields and subjects. The argument for sociological economics can be made on two grounds: ontological or empirical‐historical and epistemological or theoretical‐methodological ones. The article bases the argument for sociological economics on the former, i.e., the empirical‐historical social co‐determination of the economy. The relations of sociological economics to sociology of economics are specified and the implications of sociological/social economics for modern economic science are also discussed.
Part I: The European Monetary and Economic Union, in its present form, exposed to insurmountable difficulties
Authors: Rugina Anghel N.
Published: July 2002

Questions whether the planned European Monetary Union is capable of solving the social economic challenges of our time. Examines the economic and financial history of modern times; explains the formulation of the impossibility theorem in practice, suggesting the equation of unified knowledge as a solution to the problem of economic calculation; and constructs a plan for a free and stable European Monetary and Economic Union. Looks at the provisions of the Maastricht Treaty (1992) questioning its ability to solve the basic problems of the member states of the European Union. Addresses a number of issues contained within the Treaty: acceptable socially beneficial goals; unacceptable socially harmful, adverse anti‐equilibrium means, policies, reforms and regulations; and the phenomenon of physics’ ‘chain reaction’ within economics. Gives a synopsis of anti‐equilibrium elements and forces in the Treaty of Maastricht, debating what needs to be done to ensure that European Monetary and Economic Union can become an immediate and lasting success.
What is a just economy in a globalized world?
Authors: Goulet Denis
Published: July 2002

This paper aims to address the ethical and social issues raised by economic development in a globalized world. It argues that development has not delivered economic wellbeing to all nations and peoples and questions the view of development as the main achievement by economics. It attempts to define what a just economy is and examines how economic justice can be achieved when the economic system is structurally unjust.
Social economics, justice and the common good
Authors: Lutz Mark A.
Published: July 2002

A precise definition of “social economics” has been the subject of much debate for the last 30 years and, as yet, there seems to be no general consensus of opinion. This paper attempts to embrace the apparent pluralism of viewpoints as a temporary instrument to encourage critical debate and dialogue in order to work towards a unified concept of social economics.
Allocative inefficiency and rural poverty in India
Authors: Ghosh B.N.
Published: July 2002

The magnitude of rural poverty is larger as compared to urban poverty in India. The basic explanation for sectoral poverty differentiates in India is the misallocation of resources and urban‐biased strategy of development. Investment allocation in Indian planning is not strictly based on the consideration of equity and economic efficiency. The rural sector gets the smaller share of investible resources, and therefore rural income, output and employment fall short of the optimum level, and rural poverty intensifies.
Metaphysics and economy – the problem of interest
Authors: Sauer James B.
Published: July 2002

Understanding the differences in the Islamic and Christian view of interest requires coming to terms not with the acts constitutive of the practice but the meaning of the practice in two different views of what an economy produces and delivers. The difference in the norms that govern interest transactions differ because the metaphysical foundations about what the practice means differ. The Islamic norms are broader via public accountability for the good produced by an economy as a social good than the normative regulation of interest transactions in Christian cultures that focuses on the goods delivered by an economy to more or less independent individuals participating in an economy. However, some reconciliation of the Christian and Islamic view is possible when we recognize that the ethical accountability of interest rests on a view of economic justice as increasing the degree of economic participation in an economy as an economic and social good. When this view is taken, we see that the range of potentially illicit practices in Christian economies is larger than is actually the case in the actual regulation of interest transactions.
Microenterprise development using Islamic financing and organizational instruments
Authors: Alam Choudhury Masudul
Published: July 2002

A microenterprise is modeled on Islamic epistemological premises to bring out its extensively applied perspectives using community‐based participatory instruments of Islamic law (Shari’ah). The case study is for Bangladesh, but the model developed has universal implications. Various organizational features of such a microenterprise model with a strong human resource development focus at the grass roots are explained in detail, keeping in view the process‐based systems perspectives in the knowledge‐induced learning process that is embedded in the model of the Islamic microenterprise.
Waqf, perpetual charity and poverty alleviation
Authors: Sadeq AbulHasan M.
Published: July 2002

This paper discusses the potential role of the institution of waqf in poverty alleviation, particularly in the developing world. It attempts to define a new approach to poverty analysis and suggests a way to make the role of waqfmore effective in the poverty alleviation and socio‐economic development of a resource‐poor country.
Economic growth and social indicators
Authors: Hsieh Wen‐jen , Hsing Yu
Published: July 2002

The paper analyzes selected social indicators to determine whether people in Taiwan have become better or worse off during the process of economic growth. The authors find that residents in Taiwan experienced better education, more political freedom, better health care, better nutrition, more welfare programs and benefits, greater home ownership, improved environment, more income inequality, more crimes, more traffic congestion, and more divorces. Therefore, economic growth brought mixed outcomes in social development. The impacts of the recent change in the regime on economic growth, federal budget, domestic and overseas investment spending, employment, the financial market, corruption and bribery, and social justice may deserve further study.
The Muslim Republics of the CIS:
Authors: Alam Choudhury Masudul
Published: July 2002

Discusses the present‐day economic trans‐formation sponsored by the IMF
in the direction of privatization in the Commonwealth of Independent
States. Chooses as case study the Muslim CIS bloc as the perfect
example of the fiasco of the prescriptions of structural transformation
by the socialist and capitalist orders. Adopts a methodological and
empirical approach to demonstrate the extreme destabilization and
disequilibrium, which are shown to remain embedded in these
prescriptions of change. Hence, the monetary, fiscal, trade and pricing
policies prescribed by the IMF are under attack as much as the old
socialist prescription is shown to have been an unreal one. Gives a
brief history of the Muslim CIS bloc pointing to an altogether different
approach to structural change desired by these people: the world view of
Islam in socioeconomic matters. Gives details of this to bring out the
nature of this world view in the form of a universally knowledge‐based
model of structural change. Discusses the policy implications in the
context of this Islamic knowledge‐based world view.
Competitiveness and Industrial Policy
Authors: Tiemstra John P.
Published: July 2002

Discusses problems within the US economy, such as the decline of wages
and standards of living, and the effect this has on the community.
Examines the causes of structural change and trade deficits in an
attempt to find the necessary policy measures. Considers certain
problems which need to be addressed and policy changes required
(reduction of the military‐ industrial complex, certain govern‐ment
training programmes), before concluding that the private sector would be
able to produce more effective change and be capable of managing
transition.
The Social Economist Examines Man′s Aversion to Taxes
Authors: Sun Li‐teh
Published: July 2002

The beliefs that Government interferes with individual freedom and that
private and public goods are competitive appear to be the two major
reasons for man′s aversion to paying taxes. In reality, however,
especially from a socio‐economic viewpoint, government also increases
individual freedom, and the acceptance of necessity is as much an
ingredient of good life as the attainment of freedom. Furthermore,
private goods and public goods are as complementary as they are
competitive. Thus, compared with the main‐ stream neoclassical
economist, the social economist has a more complete understanding of the
actual human condition and, in so doing, he can provide better solutions
to the problem of man′s hostility to paying taxes.
Missing: Morality in the Transformation of Former Socialist Countries
Authors: Riha Tomas J.F.
Published: July 2002

Claims that the process of transition of former socialist countries has
been misguided. The reform of the economic system is but part of the
overall process of social transformation, and it is argued that at the
root of the disappointing results has been the fact that instead of
focusing on moral redemption, the moral decay of these societies has
even been enhanced by the infusion of economic egoism. The present
transition can be seen as a process of transformation from
primitive socialism to primitive capitalism. Without the sanctity of law
and order rooted in the value system of the cultural heritage of
Judeo‐Christian ethics, the privatization of state industries and public
utilities including the commercialization of education, health, the arts
and sciences has been creating conditions for a place far removed from
an environment conducive to social peace, political stability and
economic growth.
A Marx/Dewey Dialogue on the Prospects for an American Socialism
Authors: Jeannot Thomas M.
Published: July 2002

Discusses family resemblances between the philosophical and social
outlooks of Karl Marx and John Dewey. Despite fundamental differences
(for example Dewey′s meliorism versus Marx′s commitment to revolutionary
struggle), the degree of their philosophical compatibility is
considerable. There are, for example, striking parallels between their
respective versions of epistemological pragmatism and naturalism.
Discusses in detail resemblances between their respective critiques of
liberal capitalism.
Russian Federalism: An American and West European Comparison
Authors: Brinkman Richard L. , Bovt Georgy
Published: July 2002

Analyses and clarifies the concept of federalism outside such limited paradigmatic boundaries and includes the relevant social and economic variables. Applies a holistic and interdisciplinary methodology in the framework of the processes of general culture evolution to interrelate the social, the political and the economic. Compares the West European experiences and the US prototype, to that of the current movement towards an evolving Russian federation. Analyses the apparent positive and centripetal movement towards West European federalism, in the context of the European Union, juxtoposed to the centrifrugal forces evident in the collapse of the USSR. Analyses the current movement towards a Russian federation.
Ethics and economics
Authors: Alam Choudhury Masudul
Published: July 2002

Explains the exogenous and endogenous types of relationships
between ethics and economics in neoclassical and non‐neoclassical
framework. Studies market consequentialism, deontological preferences
and polity‐market (ecology) interactions in recent developments in
economic theory and political philosophy. A review of literature is
covered. From these studies, bordering ethics and economics, is evolved
the contrasting methodology and world view of an endogenous theory
underlying the interface between ethics and economics. The underlying
principle of ethical endogeneity of this new paradigm is treated with an
institution‐economy interface by addressing the issue of sustainability.
A simple mathematical formulation is done to show how ethics can be
methodologically endogenized in a scientific framework for theory,
policy development and institutionalism. Examines Canada′s Green Plan in
light of the exogenous and endogenous ethical relationships. The
critique is developed and ethico‐economic policy‐theory alternatives are
proposed.
An interview with Clem Tisdell
Authors: Dollery Brian , Wallis Joe
Published: July 2002

Clem Tisdell is one of Australia’s pre‐eminent economists who has made decisive contributions in several areas of economics, perhaps most notably development economics, environmental economics and natural resource economics. Tisdell is presently Professor of Economics at the University of Queensland in Brisbane, Australia, and is also a long‐standing member of the editorial advisory board of theInternational Journal of Social Economics. This interview, which falls in the tradition of Klamer, was recorded in his Brisbane home in November 1995 and seeks to explore Tisdell’s extraordinary career, the development of his thinking about economics in general and his prodigious research output in particular. Tisdell answered the questions in his customary quietly‐spoken and good‐humoured manner.
The origins of private property and wealth in post‐communist society
Authors: Riha Tomas J.F.
Published: July 2002

Throughout history, social philosophers have justified titles of possession by the right of occupation, labour, and social contract, while the economic justification rests on efficiency grounds. Subscribing to the extremely contestable argument that there is a connection between private property rights and the performance and prosperity of capitalism, de‐socialization of ownership was to become the backbone for market oriented reforms in post‐communist society. The absence of clearly defined property rights, their capricious enforcement, widespread cronyism and criminal activity, in combination with a lack of resolution to terminate the quasi‐property rights of the former ruling elite, and imperfect markets have created a situation where, in the final analysis, the original foundation of most rights to property and wealth would hardly survive the test of justice and be validated in any socially responsible society. Moral precepts aside, given these circumstances, it would be hard for an economist to argue that the present process of re‐allocation of rights could be explained on efficiency grounds.
Egoism: Adam Smith’s theory and Chinese traditional ideologies compared
Authors: Yang Cao
Published: July 2002

Egoism as a moral philosophy of market economy in Adam Smith’s system is rational not ultra. It benefits not only other people but also the society led by an invisible hand. The Chinese traditional culture dominated by Confucianism, which denied gain‐seeking actuated by human selfish motives, as a whole, may be incompatible with the development of a market economy. Without rational egoism, the market economy would not exist. Meanwhile, ultra‐egoism which benefits oneself at the expense of others has also deformed the market economy. If it runs wild, the market economy would take the road to its doom.
The socio‐economic time dimension in Talmudic literature
Authors: Ohrenstein Roman A.
Published: July 2002

Attempts to analyse some of the aspects of economic time as presented in biblical and apocryphal sources, and as debated in the Talmudic tomes. Also asks, what is time and what is its social significance? The notion of time and its proper utilization is a major topic of discussion and significance in Hebrew scriptures, Talmudic literature and in subsequent Jewish thought. Demonstrates the scriptural and Talmudic approach towards the time phenomenon and, in particular, the utilization of time as an economic vehicle with respect to “time preference” ‐ the placing of a higher value on present rather than future goods; “waiting time” ‐ the Talmudic theory of interest; “lost time” ‐ the Talmudic theory of foregone opportunities or opportunity lost, and the subtle distinction between “waiting time” and “lost time”, all theoretically insightful and economically significant.
Self‐interest and sympathy in economic behaviour
Authors: Hausken Kjell
Published: July 2002

Analyses self‐interest and sympathy in game‐theoretic terms. Evaluates the relative weight of self‐interest and sympathy in the theories of Hobbes, Hume and Adam Smith in an economic framework. Demonstrates through game‐theoretic tools that sympathy as an actuating motive in human nature gives rise to human interaction having other and, for organizations and societies, more beneficial characteristics than does merely self‐interested interaction. Uses the emphasis on the time factor and the importance of the future in Hume’s more than in Hobbes’ theory to show how co‐operation can emerge in large organizations. Introduces government or an organizational structure to further induce co‐operative behaviour.
Reflections on labour market deregulation in South Africa
Authors: Tajgman David
Published: July 2002

Discusses how, from 1919 the ILO (International Labour Organization) has been meeting the call for labour market deregulation with the plea that “labour is not a commodity” and that treating it as such can only result in ‐ and exacerbate ‐ social injustice. On its re‐entry into the international community, South Africa has plunged head on into the global debate on the subject: should it “deregulate” its labour market in order to achieve “international competitiveness”? Would deregulation create employment? Argues against labour market deregulation in South Africa. Posits that new markets in which the country can be internationally competitive have yet to become apparent and that it would be inappropriate, in light of the country’s economic and human resource base, to cheapen labour in the search for that market. Concludes that such a move in South Africa would widen the incomes gap, subsidize labour inefficiency and undermine long‐term productivity gains. While the “low road” to international competitiveness might yield short‐term results, it is urged that the long‐term social costs would be too high. In sum, argues that labour market policy should place more attention on improvement of human resources and labour market institutions and on the broadening of domestic and regional markets.
Ethics and efficiency in organizations
Authors: Hausken Kjell
Published: July 2002

Lays out a framework for analysing ethics in organizations. Relying on methodological individualism, introduces five building blocks for the framework: self‐interest, individual rationality, sequential rationality, incentive compatibility, and reputation. Uncritical use of the self‐interest model may induce framing effects, blinding less cautious users to important ethical dimensions. Illustrates the richness and “ethical flavour” of an appropriately considered self‐interest model through focusing one of the individual agent’s real interests in a broad sense, through the use of the time factor in the building blocks, and through suggesting how the individual agent can interpret the value systems in her surroundings.