Political Orientation and the Decision to Major in Economics: Some Preliminary Observations

Robin L. Bartlett, Marianne A. Ferber and Carole A. Green ()
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Robin L. Bartlett: Denison University
Marianne A. Ferber: University of Illinois at Urbana-Champaign
Carole A. Green: University of South Florida

International Review of Economic Education, 2009, vol. 8, issue 1, 13-31

Abstract: Studies find that students major in economics for a variety of reasons. None, however, have examined students' political orientations as a possible factor in their choice of majors. Economics, as compared to other social sciences, tends to produce conservative policy recommendations. This pilot study explores whether more conservative students are attracted to economics. Our study found that men with conservative political leanings are more likely to major in economics and that male students in economics are more conservative than female students. Political orientation, however, does not appear to be a significant factor in the choice of a major for women.

Date: 2009
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