Transition of ‘The Economics Industry’ in Albania: A Bibliometric Approach

22 Pages Posted: 22 Nov 2017 Last revised: 14 Aug 2018

See all articles by Marianne Johnson

Marianne Johnson

University of Wisconsin - Oshkosh - Department of Economics

Alexander Kovzik

University of Wisconsin - Oshkosh

Date Written: June 15, 2018

Abstract

This paper examines the socio-economic evolution of professional academic economics in Albania from their period of isolation beginning in 1978 through the transition to a market economy. Exploring the relationship between government structure and economic thought and practice allows one to understand important features of the Albanian transition. Bibliometric techniques are used to construct a data-driven picture of economics dissertations and publications in Albania. Two critical components of economics practice are identified as missing. First, a history of isolation and Hoxha-dominated political economy undermined perceptions about the usefulness and necessity of citations. Second, constrained resources has limited access to and interest in high quality theoretical research. Albanian economics remains disconnected from both contemporary and historical economic theory and disciplinary formative papers. This has implications for the quality of work that can be produced. Albania’s transition from most isolated country in the world to potential member of the European Union holds lessons for today’s rogue regimes. Understanding the implications of isolation on economic thought and practice could suggest strategies for building necessary and effective academic infrastructures that support economic transitioning.

Keywords: Albania, Transitional Economies, Sociology of Economics, Economics Education

JEL Classification: B24, N01, 057, P30

Suggested Citation

Johnson, Marianne and Kovzik, Alexander, Transition of ‘The Economics Industry’ in Albania: A Bibliometric Approach (June 15, 2018). Available at SSRN: https://ssrn.com/abstract=3074406 or http://dx.doi.org/10.2139/ssrn.3074406

Marianne Johnson (Contact Author)

University of Wisconsin - Oshkosh - Department of Economics ( email )

800 Algoma Blvd.
Oshkosh, WI 54901
United States
920-424-2230 (Phone)
920-424-1734 (Fax)

Alexander Kovzik

University of Wisconsin - Oshkosh ( email )

800 Algoma Blvd
Oshkosh, WI WI 54901
United States

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