REALISM, THEORY, AND INDIVIDUALISM IN THE WORK OF MENGER,CARL

Theorizing in economics is often associated with some form of individu alism. This paper considers the nature of this association in the work of Carl Menger. I adopt this focus not only because of continuing int erest in Menger's work, but because recent developments in social theo ry facilitate a fruitful reevaluation of his general position. I argue that a convincing link between theory and individualism is absent in Menger's work. Moreover, I argue that the various criticisms often mad e of his work actually relate to the ideas which underlie his individu alism rather than, as is usually supposed, those arising from an adher ence to a form of Aristotelianism.