The intention of this article is to propose a broad-based critique of contemporary economic methodology beginning with recognition of the deep-seated heterogeneity of the subject matter of economics. There is a good deal of discontent about the methods and traditions in vogue in contemporary economic theory. I shall argue that while parts of that disquiet are well grounded, they have to be separated from others that seem to take insufficient note of the particular nature of the exercises under attack. In particular, some reproaches are based on an inadequate recognition of the diversity of motivations and concerns underlying different types of economic theory.
