Planet Money
We asked 188 economists. And the survey says...
Oct 16, 2024
Join a lively discussion on the quirks of economics as 188 economists share the most misunderstood terms in their field. Laugh along with stories from the classroom where a humorous take on 'pegging' had students in stitches. Explore the confusion surrounding 'public goods' and how everyday meanings differ from economic definitions. Dive into real-world implications of terms like 'soft landing' and 'moral hazard', illuminating the complexities behind these concepts. This engaging journey makes economic jargon accessible and entertaining!
21:23
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Quick takeaways
- Professor Boulant-Tumel uses humor strategically in economics lectures to enhance student engagement and showcase the subject's lighter side.
- Misunderstandings of economic terms, like 'moral hazard', reveal the disconnect between common language and their specialized meanings in economics.
Deep dives
The Role of Humor in Teaching Economics
In an effort to engage students in economics, Professor Boulant-Tumel incorporates humor into his teaching. He has a systematic approach to telling jokes during lectures, which he strategically places based on student attention levels. This tactic not only helps maintain engagement but also showcases the lighter side of economics, which can often be perceived as dry or complex. However, an unexpected incident arose when a term he used had an alternate meaning that resulted in unexpected laughter, exemplifying the unpredictable nature of classroom dynamics.
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