Skip to main content

Research Repository

Advanced Search

The future of construction economics as an academic discipline

Myers, Danny

Authors

Danny Myers



Abstract

The contribution made by economic theory when studying construction-related subjects has a muddled history. This theme was carefully reviewed in Ofori (1994) where he bluntly concluded that: 'Construction economics cannot be regarded as a bona-fide subject' (p. 304). This short note takes a retrospective look at George Ofori's paper and suggests that during the subsequent period little has changed. This is despite the publication of government reports that stressed the importance of creating a culture of economic efficiency within construction and the need for the industry to become sustainable. This paper is informed by a brief survey of what is currently taught at British universities under the title of construction economics. Two points for debate emerge. The first is the worrying observation about the present state of play, as it seems that construction economics continues to lack any coherent conceptual structure. The second is the more promising suggestion that in the foreseeable future the sustainability agenda could provide the impetus necessary for construction economists to agree a common purpose and conceptual approach.

Citation

Myers, D. (2003). The future of construction economics as an academic discipline. Construction Management and Economics, 21(2), 103-106. https://doi.org/10.1080/0144619032000056117

Journal Article Type Article
Publication Date Feb 1, 2003
Journal Construction Management and Economics
Print ISSN 0144-6193
Publisher Taylor & Francis (Routledge)
Peer Reviewed Peer Reviewed
Volume 21
Issue 2
Pages 103-106
DOI https://doi.org/10.1080/0144619032000056117
Keywords construction economics, academics and construction
Public URL https://uwe-repository.worktribe.com/output/1074129
Publisher URL http://dx.doi.org/10.1080/0144619032000056117

Downloadable Citations