Some epistemological reflections on the concept of Homo Economicus

According to classical economists, economic science is the study of the paths of well-being linked to the consumption of goods and the analysis of social behaviours that economic reality determines. This approach was abandoned by neoclassical economists who believe that social aspects in the choice of economic agents are only relevant in a perspective peculiar to the homo economicus. The concepts of altruism, happiness and solidarity are only analysed if related to the efficiency, optimal choice and utility that are objectives and instruments of the rational agent. This approach generates difficulties for economists in explaining why greater wealth is not associated with greater well-being, thus, making altruistic and supportive behaviours apparently inexplicable. In this context, and in response to these problems, there are recent lines of research based on the assumption that the identity of counterparts assumes a role in the choices of economic agents and for which the social aspects of human interaction constitute a resource for development.