The articulation between the positive and normative approaches in some branches of the economy

In this article we illustrate the diversity of possible answers to two questions : 1) can and should economists abstain from normative judgements, and 2) must there be such a thing as normative economics, and, if so, must it be formal or material ? As regards the first question, we illustrate by reviewing three subdomains of economics industrial organization, public economics and political economy how the diversity of points of view on the place of normative judgements is rooted in the diversity of scientific projects in these subdomains. As regards the second question, by taking the example of welfare economics, we illustrate how normative economics can constitute a distinct subject. We also show how the way in which welfare economists draw inspiration from positive economics has developed over time (transl. J. Dudley).