The Social Science Research Council (SSRC) is proud to announce the upcoming Katznelson Fellow Lecture, featuring Nobel Prize-winner Esther Duflo from the Massachusetts Institute of Technology (MIT). This highly anticipated event will take place in 2024 and promises to be a thought-provoking and insightful discussion on the role of economists in society.
The SSRC Katznelson Fellow Lecture is an annual event that brings together some of the most distinguished scholars and researchers in the field of social science. This year, the council is honored to have Esther Duflo as the keynote speaker. Duflo, who was awarded the Nobel Prize in Economics in 2019, is a renowned economist and a leading figure in the fight against poverty.
In her lecture, titled “The Economist as Plumber,” Duflo will share her groundbreaking research on poverty and development economics. She will discuss the importance of using evidence-based approaches to tackle complex social issues and how economists can play a crucial role in shaping policies that have a real impact on people’s lives.
Duflo’s work has revolutionized the field of economics by challenging traditional theories and methodologies. She is known for her innovative use of randomized control trials (RCTs) to evaluate the effectiveness of social programs and policies. Her research has not only shed light on the root causes of poverty but also provided practical solutions to address them.
One of Duflo’s most significant contributions is her co-founding of the Abdul Latif Jameel Poverty Action Lab (J-PAL) at MIT. J-PAL is a global research center that works closely with governments and NGOs to design and evaluate poverty alleviation programs. Through her work at J-PAL, Duflo has helped bridge the gap between academia and policy-making, making economics more relevant and impactful in the real world.
Duflo’s approach to economics has been described as “economics with a human face.” She believes that economics should not only be about numbers and statistics but also about understanding the complexities of human behavior and decision-making. Her work has shown that by taking a more holistic and human-centered approach, we can design better policies that truly make a difference in people’s lives.
The SSRC Katznelson Fellow Lecture is a testament to the council’s commitment to promoting interdisciplinary research and fostering dialogue between scholars and policymakers. The lecture series, named after the late political scientist Ira Katznelson, aims to honor his legacy by bringing together diverse perspectives and ideas to address pressing social issues.
Duflo’s lecture is particularly timely, given the current state of the world. The COVID-19 pandemic has exposed and exacerbated existing inequalities, making Duflo’s research on poverty and development economics more relevant than ever. Her insights and recommendations will undoubtedly provide valuable guidance for policymakers and researchers as we navigate the post-pandemic world.
The SSRC Katznelson Fellow Lecture is a must-attend event for anyone interested in the intersection of economics and social science. Duflo’s expertise and passion for using economics to create a more equitable world will inspire and motivate all those in attendance. Her lecture will not only be a celebration of her achievements but also a call to action for all of us to use our knowledge and skills to make a positive impact on society.
In conclusion, the 2024 SSRC Katznelson Fellow Lecture featuring Esther Duflo is an event not to be missed. Her groundbreaking research, innovative approach, and commitment to using economics for the greater good make her a true inspiration. We look forward to welcoming Duflo and all those interested in the power of economics to create a better world. See you in 2024!
