The Common Reader
Tyler Cowen: reading John Stuart Mill
Dec 11, 2023
In this engaging conversation, Tyler Cowen, author of "GOAT: Greatest Of All Time" and a renowned economist, dives deep into the philosophies of John Stuart Mill. He explores Mill's lasting influence on modern economics and social thought, emphasizing themes of individualism and education. The discussion also uncovers Mill's complex views on morality, particularly regarding personal relationships and justice. Readers are encouraged to navigate his works, as Cowen highlights key texts and the importance of humanities in a quantitatively driven world.
42:39
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Quick takeaways
- Tyler Cowen highlights the enduring relevance of John Stuart Mill's insights on labor and market dynamics in today's economic discourse.
- The discussion emphasizes the importance of Mill’s educational reform ideas, suggesting challenges in realizing his vision in modern contexts.
Deep dives
The Value of Biographies in Economics
Writing biographies within the field of economics is often seen as a low-return endeavor, with many economists questioning its practicality. Unlike popular biographies that can generate significant sales and prestige, those in economics rarely attract attention or are deemed essential for academic careers. In discussing John Stuart Mill, it was noted that his autobiography may have had a greater impact on the world compared to his economic writings. However, Mill's autobiography does not primarily communicate his economic ideas effectively, which further complicates the relevance of biographies in this field.
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