The economic mainstream is characterized by theoretically, research-methodologically, and normatively rather narrow as- sumptions and conventions. This seems to be specifically true for the German discourse. The recent macro-economic crises and the dissatisfying modes of explanation underline this fact. Since the academic discourse influences public opinion and political decision making, we need to open up the debate. Therefore, the University of Siegen, in association with a network of international partners, is hosting a symposium to question the current state of economic thinking. Our goal is to implement a more pluralistic, empirical and critical
approach towards economics, re-linking economics and social sciences at the University of Siegen.
The objective of the symposium is to provide a critical positioning on the current state of research. Derived from this objective, a re- search agenda will be developed for a research institute which is in the making at the University of Siegen. The institute is to be created where economics and social science meet. Focusing on the concept of economic, social and ecological sustainability, research activi- ties at the institute will try to link finding from a micro and macro perspective. The research paradigm is intended to be interdiscipli- nary, pluralistic in methods and directed towards key social issues. Additionally, we intend to enrich our study programs in economics and social science. Forthcoming master programs will integrate perspectives from economics, law, political science, and sociology, using state-of-the art teaching methods.