Researches

[Current research projects]

In recent years, local reciprocity has drawn attention, while a globally universal order has been pursued. Economics is not an exception. The micro-macro distinction of economic theory is nothing other than a two-sided approach —from the individual or from the whole—to investigating a universal order. The two perspectives are in fact combined to construct a highly abstract general theory. In contrast, recent research on local reciprocity has shaken up economics by focusing on diverse situations and multiple values of individuals. Now we need to construct a theory and social institutions, which support this local reciprocity and connect it with a globally universal order.

I research theme is to provide a methodological foundation for constructing a “general” theory that can incorporate unique and specific lives of individuals who are struggling with various natural and social contingencies in the society, instead of setting them aside as exceptions to the theory. More concretely, my research interest is to estimate restrictions of capabilities of elders, care-takers and persons with disabilities and, furthermore, to search for more effective social supports or public assistances, based on people's understanding of their own capabilities. I would like to provide an original economic theory from the Institute of Economic Research, where I can collaborate with outstanding positive (empirical) economists.

[Keywords]

Theoretical and Operational Examination of the Capability Approach, Re-construction of Liberalism and Modern Theories of Justice, Methodological Investigation of Welfare Economics based on the theory of Amartya Sen