Looks like the fundamental goals of economics are changing.
Nineteenth and twentieth century arguments were about equality and protection of the vulnerable versus market dynamics and individual incentives.
Twenty-first century economics sees the failures of both sides and is looking at new turf for the argument. Not equality but avoidance of gross inequality. Not only individual money incentives but also quality of life enhancements for society as a whole. Experiment rather than ideology. Harnessing wants and needs, not treating them as extreme alternatives.
I am concerned that such models will not be effective in removing the dead wood. But it is a worthwhile shift in the conversation away from the dreadfulness of both pure socialism and libertarianism/ raw capitalism, whose flaws are so blindingly obvious.
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