On the coherence of post-Keynesian economics

Recently the claim that post-Keynesianism represents a coherent alternative to orthodox/neoclassical theory has regained favour with many leading post-Keynesians. The purpose of this paper is to consider the basis for any such claim that post-Keynesianism is a coherent alternative. A variety of forms of coherence are considered in relation to post-Keynesian analyses and a number of shortcomings are identified. The broad conclusion is that post-Keynesianism has not yet decided upon its preferred conception of coherence and consequently, cannot be regarded, at present, as an alternative school of economic thought.