Renowned Economist William Easterly Illuminates at Henry George Lecture

In a vibrant gathering of minds eager to explore the nuances of economics, William Easterly, Ph.D., a celebrated professor from New York University, graced The University of Scranton with his presence at the prestigious Fall Henry George Lecture. Dr. Easterly’s visit on Oct. 21 marked another chapter in this annual series that has historically hosted various Nobel laureates, according to University of Scranton.

A Decade of Excellence

The Fall Henry George Lecture is a cornerstone event at The University of Scranton, regularly drawing the brightest economists and thinkers. It stands as a beacon of intellectual dialogue, its lectures often having profound impacts both on academia and practical policymaking.

Dr. Easterly’s Insightful Presentations

During his visit, Dr. Easterly conducted two compelling lectures. His afternoon talk delved into the intricate dynamics behind the rise and fall of free markets. This was followed by an evening lecture titled “Violent Saviors: Development Lessons from the History of Colonialism,” where Dr. Easterly boldly critiqued the outcomes of coercive foreign interventions, advocating for local empowerment in development decisions.

Honoring a Tradition of Intellectual Leadership

As part of the ceremonies, Dr. Easterly participated in an event at Brennan Hall where his contributions were recognized, and his association with the Henry George Lecture series was immortalized on a commemorative plaque alongside other eminent speakers.

A Tapestry of Legacy and Future

The lecture series also paid tribute to alumni like John Kelly, whose contributions have been instrumental in sustaining and enriching the program. A dinner in Kelly’s honor highlighted how individual generosity continues to spark intellectual growth and community engagement.

A Storied Career

Dr. Easterly’s career, spanning roles at The World Bank and the Institute for International Economics, has significantly influenced economic thought. His extensive body of work, including over 70 academic articles and influential books, positions him as a thought leader in the field of development economics.

The evening concluded with attendees inspired and recharged, ready to contribute to discussions around economic policies and development strategies that could shape a fairer global landscape.

In Dr. Easterly’s words, empowering communities through self-governance remains the key to sustainable development—a message that resonates well beyond academia.