Big Ideas Radical economics — what can we learn from the life of John Maynard Keynes
Jul 15, 2025
Zachary Carter, a journalist and author known for his award-winning biography of Keynes, is joined by Nobel Prize-winning economist Paul Krugman. They dive into the transformative life of John Maynard Keynes, exploring his radical ideas on economic policy and his critiques of post-WWI agreements. Their discussion highlights Keynes's influential role in shaping modern economics, his innovative thoughts during the Bretton Woods Conference, and the tensions between liberal values and authoritarianism during the 1920s.
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Keynes Against Old-World Nationalism
- Keynes opposed old ideas that measured national strength by conquest and debt.
- He believed in liberalism and internationalism to foster global cooperation and peace.
Young Keynes Runs War Finances
- At 31, Keynes ran Britain's war finances during WWI despite lack of an economics degree.
- His intelligence and connections got him quickly into this prestigious Treasury role.
Economics in the Public Eye
- Keynes made important economic ideas accessible through public writings and newspapers.
- He even bought a newspaper to share and experiment with his economic thoughts openly.
