Let us expand this Western project by admitting diversity and enhancing rigor: A systematic review of empirical research on alternative economies

Abstract

Research of alternative economies (AEs) has been portrayed as a mission of spreading visionary hopes for progressive change toward more sustainable and equitable economic systems. Despite its increasing popularity, it is less clear how it has been supported by empirical evidence. Therefore, we systematically searched for primary research studies on AEs (comprising alternative, diverse, community, or heterodox economies, and alternative food networks) published in recognized journals. We analyzed the patterns of the literature and characterized the examined AEs. We also overviewed methods and theories, and how the literature on AEs in the Global South conceptualizes both AEs and mainstream economic practices. We found that research of AEs has increased rapidly driven by an explosion of interest in alternative food networks. The published research of AEs has largely been a Western project signifying another example of the hierarchy of knowledge production. We argue that two general directions are worth to follow. First, the cultivation of empathy toward ontological diversity can make the research on AEs more pertinent to non-Western audience. Second, increased scope and epistemological rigor can make this research project more credible. We believe that these two directions can be followed without compromising the normative appeal of this scholarly programme.