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VoxDev Development Economics

S4 Ep41: What can we learn from food economics?

Oct 16, 2024
Will Masters, a Professor at Tufts University and co-author of the open-access textbook "Food Economics," discusses the intricate links between food systems and economics. He sheds light on the challenges faced by farmers and consumers in the global food supply chain. The conversation delves into the impact of open access resources on education, the economic struggles of family farms versus agribusiness, and the vital role of insurance in alleviating poverty. Masters also emphasizes the importance of integrating science into food policy for sustainable development.
32:40

Episode guests

Podcast summary created with Snipd AI

Quick takeaways

  • The 'Food Economics' textbook connects economic principles to everyday food choices, making economics more relatable and practical for learners.
  • The open-access model of the textbook democratizes knowledge about food systems, particularly benefiting students and educators in low-income regions.

Deep dives

Understanding Food Through Economics

The textbook 'Food Economics' is designed to teach both economists and students from various fields about the intricacies of the food system through an economic lens. It emphasizes how daily food choices are connected to economic concepts, making it relatable and practical for learners. The book aims to open the eyes of economists who may not have previously considered food systems in their work, while also providing a framework for students to grasp economic theories through familiar topics like food consumption. Its dual approach encourages a broad understanding of the economic principles that underpin food decisions, informing better choices among consumers and policymakers alike.

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