制度理性建构论与制度自发演进论的比较及其融合

The Paradigm Comparison and Fusion of Rational Constructivism and Spontaneous Evolution Theory of Institutions

经济学界长期存在两种制度研究范式,即制度理性建构论和制度自发演进论,两种研究范式长期相互独立,难有通约。实则,深入考察两种研究范式的本体论、认识论和方法论差异,探讨两种制度生成方式的优势和局限,可知二者具有互补性,进而可以通过范式融合,推动制度经济学的理论创新。制度的理性建构是基于演化形成的共同知识而非整体性知识的设计,同时必须为参与者有效运用其局部知识留有空间,理性建构的制度也会随着时间的推移而演进;自发演进的制度需要借助理性建构才能够得到扩展,进而获得更多参与者的遵循。在许多情况下,制度生成和变迁的过程既不乏理性建构的力量在起作用,也能发现自发演进的力量参与其中。制度的有效性表现为对共同知识和局部知识的有效利用,制度系统的生成和演变涉及多主体互动和多层级选择过程。

Two research paradigms of institution studies prevail in economics:rational constructivism and spontaneous evolution theory.The two paradigms have long been antagonistic and incommensurable.By in-depth study of the differences between the two research paradigms in ontology,epistemology.and methodology,as well as exploring the advantages and limitations of the two paradigms,this paper holds that the two paradigms are complementary and can promote the theoretical innovation of institutional economics through the fusion of paradigms.The rational constructivism is based on the common knowledge formed through evolution rather than the holistic knowledge.At the same time,for the rational constructivism,it is necessary to make room for the participants to use their local knowledge effectively.Rational constructed institutions will evolve over time.Spontaneously evolved institutions need to be expanded by rational construction and followed by more participants.In many cases,the generation and changes of institutions can reveal both the power of rational construction and the power of spontaneous evolution.The effectiveness of institutions is reflected in the effective use of common knowledge and local knowledge.The generation and evolution of institutions involves multisubject interaction and multi-level selection process.Finally,this paper further explores the enlightenment of this theoretical perspective to the current construction of China’s institutions.