The Program in Ethics, Culture, and Economic Development looks at the linkages among institutions, norms, and values not only regarding the problems of sustaining a just and viable economic order in developed countries, but also with regard to the promotion of human well-being, the enhanced capacity for human choice, and the elevation of living standards in emerging-market countries. The Program examines not just debates about institutional reforms and the most appropriate policy framework, but also the connections between freedom and the realization of human potential.


The Economic Challenge Project

The Economic Challenge consultation (December 5-6, 2011) brought together distinguished academics, public intellectuals, and business practitioners for an in-depth analysis of the American economy, its present problems, and future direction. Too often, discussions of the economy are narrowly focused on specific features of economic life or conducted at a very general, abstract level of political and economic theory. Missing is a perspective that can help us to think more productively about the overall economy in concrete and practical ways. The consultation consisted of round-table discussions of papers prepared in advance by some of the experts attending the meeting. A memorandum titled "The Economic Challenge," prepared by Rutgers economist Michael Bordo and Princeton economic historian Harold James, provided a frame of reference for the paper topics and discussions.

In light of the consultations' papers and discussions, the Institute is seeking to develop space for critical and constructive economic analysis of the common good. For more information, visit www.EconomicChallenge.net.