I think that most economists (and the marketing departments of most universities) would answer this question with a clear no. Indeed, comparative economics, at least in the traditional sense of comparing different economic systems, has almost disappeared from the economics curriculum, as alternative economic systems have virtually disappeared from economic reality. It is often considered a “luxury,” no more useful to a good economist than the study of how leeches were used in the nineteenth century to cure a vast array of ailments would be to a good physician.
This argument certainly has a point. Yet I believe comparative economics can still be useful. I am very happy to have the opportunity to try to discuss why at the YSI Workshop, “Postcapitalist Perspectives: Present Realities and Future Possibilities,” which will take place at Scuola Superiore Sant’Anna in Pisa on the 12th and 13th of March. I am also looking forward to listening to the many interesting contributions featured in the programme: here is the link.