The many ways that economic research has improved our lives through better economic and social policy will be the topic of discussion at this year’s University of Adelaide Geoff Harcourt Lecture.
The lecture will be delivered, tomorrow Thursday 18 October, by Professor of Economics Emeritus John Siegfried from Vanderbilt University, Nashville, Tennessee.
Professor Siegfried was a senior economist at both the US Federal Trade Commission and the US President’s Council of Economic Advisers in 1975 – 76. He was also Secretary-Treasurer (Executive Director) of the American Economic Association for sixteen years, until 2012.
"Economic research has made fundamental contributions to many important public policy decisions that have improved the lives of countless individuals worldwide," says Professor Siegfried.
"It may surprise many people to learn that it was economic research that built the intellectual foundation for eliminating the American military draft in favour of an all-volunteer army in 1973, and the de-regulation of US airlines in 1978," he says.
"Other important policy changes resulting from economic research include, a new approach to monetary policy that has moderated economic fluctuations substantially, a reduction of trade impediments so that countries can exploit their natural (comparative) advantages better, and the adoption of tradable emissions rights, which has improved our environment at minimal cost," says Professor Siegfried.
The Harcourt Lecture is named in honour of distinguished economics scholar Professor Geoff Harcourt who lectured at the University of Adelaide’s School of Economics for 25 years.
The annual event invites a global leader in a field of economics to share their knowledge and experience with University students, staff and the business community.
WHAT: Better Living Through Economics by Professor of Economics Emeritus John Siegfried
WHERE: North Terrace campus, Napier Lecture Theatre G03, University of Adelaide
WHEN: 5.30 – 6.30 pm Thursday 18 October 2018
COST: Free – but registration on Eventbrite is essential
