Kaleckian Macroeconomics: a research tradition?

Abstract

This paper examines if Kaleckian macroeconomics could be considered a research tradition, in the sense given by Larry Laudan. In order to fulfil this objective, we will analyze the evolution of Kaleckian theoretical thought, which include the contributions of Kalecki, Steindl or Goodwin, and the most recent empirical studies using the Bhaduri/Marglin model. The authors have been selected through a lumping method, which is defined as an aggregation of authors stablished in function of their common ideas. In addition, we highlight the main principles and concepts shared by this tradition and we provide a conceptual map of the issue. Then, we review and classify empirical studies to determine the objectives and results of applied research, mainly aimed at establishing regimes of growth in most countries. Both issues, theory and results, lead us to the conclusion that Kaleckian macroeconomics is a tradition of research in epistemological terms.