An Introduction to Teaching Economics with a Localization and Modernization Approach

The aim of this study is to discuss the method of teaching economics with a localization and modernization approach. Since the field of economics is constantly evolving and progressing، achieving this goal requires continuous modernization. Therefore، teaching economics with localization and modernization approach is inevitable. The localization of economics in all societies requires much attention to the structure، conditions and realities of the economy as well as the norms and values ​​of the societies. In Islamic societies، such requirement means that economics has to be thought with an Islamic approach. The key to succeed in this matter is the availability of economists who are well aware of Islamic economics with great experiences in teaching and conducting research and also the availability of relevant materials and textbooks in this field. According to the findings of the study، the first step in teaching economics is to begin with critical evaluation of the concept of economic man and to continue with investigation of some methodological considerations. To this end، it is need the scientific theories should be considered as a set of explanatory propositions explaining the causal relationship between the variables involved. These propositions consist of presumptions، normative propositions and positive propositions. Religious beliefs and moral values are highly effective in structuring the presumptions and creating and developing the scientific theories. The study indicates that the education system should give a great priority to the way of thinking about economics and using creative approaches. Likewise، blind promotion of economic theories should be avoided. We should not give any ideological importance to the presumptions and the dominant analytical approaches، and one must avoid acceptance of these presumptions and theories without adequate attention. Unlike the dominant claim in the economic literature، the actual behavior of people is severely affected by moral considerations and consists of a very rich set of values and moral preferences. The empirical evidence shows that in developed societies like the United States، Germany and Russia، as well as communities such as migrating tribes of Indonesian، people’s behavior is not based on selfishness. In the present time، people show significant interest in moral and religious approaches، and the Islamic societies are faced with high demand for providing Islamic economic texts and teaching economics with Islamic approach. To this end، it is necessary to arrange and draw up economic courses with an Islamic approach for undergraduate and higher levels، particularly as regards microeconomics.