A macroeconomics teacher explains why he considers himself to be a reluctant economist. He describes his education in economics and his initial views on economic theory. He traces the development of his research philosophy from the influence of economist Simon Kuznets and his exposure to other fields of study. Based on his experiences, he abandons his preconceptions about fixed preferences and deliberate choice. While he sees the role of economics as a starting point, he also recognizes the contribution of the other social sciences in understanding the world.
