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on Sociology of Economics |
| By: | Brodeur, Abel (University of Ottawa); Cook, Nikolai (Wilfrid Laurier University); Heyes, Anthony (University of Birmingham); Wright, Taylor (Brock University) |
| Abstract: | How efficiently do scientific results make their way into the wider world? Applying multiple methods to the universe of hypothesis tests reported in three leading health journals between 2016 and 2022 we evidence the important role of statistical significance as a driver of popular attention to research results. For example, a research finding with significance that places it marginally inside the arbitrary 5% threshold attracts 60 to 110% more real world attention than one with significance marginally outside that threshold. We explore underlying mechanisms and argue that the results have important implications for the (in)efficiency of science translation. |
| Keywords: | p-hacking, social media, news media, popular science, knowledge mobilization, statistical significance, hypothesis testing, publication bias, research credibility |
| JEL: | B41 C12 I10 L82 |
| Date: | 2025–07 |
| URL: | https://d.repec.org/n?u=RePEc:iza:izadps:dp18034 |
| By: | Henrekson, Magnus (Research Institute of Industrial Economics (IFN)); Jonung, Lars (Department of Economics, Lund University); Lundahl, Mats (Development Economics, Stockholm School of Economics) |
| Abstract: | We explore the challenges facing the current academic training of economists in small European countries like Sweden. The monolithic focus on publishing in the top-five journals, which prioritizes methodological rigor over problem-driven research, is often a threat to social relevance and policy applicability. This limits pluralism, excludes many talented economists, and fails to prepare graduates for non-academic positions. We propose a two-track model for PhD training and academic evaluation, emphasizing both traditional research and applied economic policy, tailored to the diverse needs of academia, public administration and business sectors. We also argue for broader evaluation criteria, enhanced interdisciplinary collaboration, and institutional reforms, including trial lectures and specialized research institutes. By diversifying incentives, we recommend a shift towards socially relevant and more inclusive education and practice in the discipline of economics. |
| Keywords: | Criteria for hiring and promotion; European economics; Pluralism; Research productivity |
| JEL: | A11 A14 I23 J44 J62 |
| Date: | 2025–08–11 |
| URL: | https://d.repec.org/n?u=RePEc:hhs:iuiwop:1530 |
| By: | Ankriti Singh (The World Bank); Maria Ruth Jones (The World Bank) |
| Abstract: | As empirical research grows in scale and complexity, reproducibility has become critical. Many journals now mandate the submission of code, yet researchers often lack training in writing structured, readable, and reusable code. This leads to inefficiencies, verification delays, and costly revisions. This presentation shares the authors' experience implementing regular peer code review in a large research institution. Participants exchange, run, and provide feedback on each other’s code in progress, using structured checklists to promote consistency. Standardized feedback helps identify common coding issues and develop targeted training and tools. This presentation discusses the motivation behind peer code review, focusing on its impact on Stata code quality, error detection, reproducibility, and collaboration. We highlight how it fosters a culture of continuous improvement, helping Stata practitioners enhance their coding practices from the start, rather than retrofitting for reproducibility at the end. |
| Date: | 2025–08–08 |
| URL: | https://d.repec.org/n?u=RePEc:boc:usug25:16 |