A Year of Economics by the Gresham Professor of Commerce - Professor Jagjit Chadha

TL;DR

The Mercer school memorial professor reflects on the joy of his role, emphasizing the importance of engaging with students and thinking about the foundations of economics.

Transcript

I was delighted to be appointed the Mercer school memorial professor of commerce last year I've very much enjoyed the role many people have congratulated me and in fact many were surprised that I was quoted to the role but I've tried to fulfill the obligations as well as I can I've taken the opportunity not to not only to give six lectures here in ... Read More

Key Insights

• 🧑‍🎓 Engaging with students and the public is a rewarding aspect of being a professor.
• 🤔 Thinking about economics from first principles helps clarify arguments and increases understanding.
• 😘 Real-world economic issues, such as low interest rates and unemployment, have a strong impact on individuals' lives.
• 🎚️ Explaining economic concepts to others fosters a greater level of understanding.
• 🤔 The professor's experiences at Gresham have challenged and stimulated his thinking about economics.
• 👯 The role of economics in people's lives should not be underestimated.
• ❤️‍🩹 In order to make economics accessible, connecting arguments from beginning to end is essential.

Questions & Answers

Q: What has the professor enjoyed about his role as the Mercer school memorial professor of commerce?

The professor has enjoyed giving lectures at the Gresham lectures and engaging with school children interested in studying economics. He has also appreciated the opportunity to think about economics from first principles.

Q: How has thinking about economics from first principles impacted the professor's approach?

Thinking about economics from first principles has forced the professor to carefully consider his arguments and ensure their accessibility. It has been both liberating and challenging.

Q: What topics have people discussed with the professor at his lectures?

Attendees have raised topics such as the impact of low interest rates on their housing equity, the effects of unemployment, and other real-world economic concerns. These discussions have made the subject more relatable and stimulating.

Q: What does the professor believe is the duty of those given time to think about difficult topics like economics?

The professor believes that those with knowledge and understanding of economics should explain their insights to foster a greater level of understanding among intelligent individuals. This duty is why he values his role at Gresham.

Summary & Key Takeaways

• The professor has enjoyed his role as the Mercer school memorial professor of commerce and has given lectures at the Gresham lectures and various schools.

• He appreciates the opportunity to engage with school children interested in studying economics and has received inquiries from attendees of his lectures.

• Thinking about economics from first principles has been a valuable experience, making him consider the impact of economic forces on people's lives.