The Mixtape with Scott cover image

The Mixtape with Scott

S3E24: David Autor, Labor Economist, MIT

Jul 9, 2024
David Autor, a renowned labor economist from MIT, discusses the economic impacts of globalization and technological advancements, including the effects of Chinese trade on U.S. labor markets. He shares childhood memories and interests, from his geeky personality and fascination with electronics to his love for nonfiction reading and sailing. The podcast explores his journey into labor economics, detailing his unexpected path and growth in the field, emphasizing hard work, humility, and mentorship in academia.
01:00:51

Episode guests

Podcast summary created with Snipd AI

Quick takeaways

  • Local labor markets faced significant job declines and societal impacts post-trade shock.
  • Dr. Autor's academic journey led to a shift in beliefs towards acknowledging trade's challenges.

Deep dives

Discovery of Labor Market Adjustment Impact Due to Trade

Research led by Dr. Otter, in collaboration with Dr. Hanson and Dr. Dorn, revealed surprising results regarding local labor market adaptation to trade shock. Despite initial expectations of smooth adjustment, the study unveiled significant manufacturing job declines in import-competing regions leading to adverse consequences like income reduction, persistently high unemployment rates, and societal impacts on marriage, fertility, and well-being.

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