Roscher’s epistemological and methodological position: Its importance for the Methodenstreit

According to a widely accepted view, the Methodenstreit between the historical and Austrian school was the result of misunderstandings. Argues that it was rather the outcome of different solutions to genuine philosophical and methodological problems, in particular to a demarcation problem. Presents a reconstruction of the position of Roscher. Argues that Roscher sought to solve a demarcation problem and therefore triggered a problem situation which was of fundamental importance for further discussion. Contrasts the views of Roscher and Menger. Argues that Menger′s views constitute a direct response to Roscher′s problem situation.