General selection theory and economic evolution: The Price equation and the replicator/interactor distinction

The purpose of the present article is to strengthen the conceptualisation of the principle of selection in theories of economic evolution and to help clarify a number of unsettled issues regarding the meaning of variety and continuity. In order to achieve this, the emerging general mathematical selection theory is introduced to identify the requirements of a general principle of selection and the specification of variety and continuity that follows from it. It is indicated how general selection theory can help advance evolutionary theories of economic change by clarifying the meaning of selection, and the possible role of habits and routines in economic selection.