Annual Research Night: «The Economics of Inequality and Education»
Professor Heckman explored the critical relationship between inequality and education, emphasizing that addressing disparities in early childhood is key to reducing long-term inequality. He argued that policies focused on early interventions for disadvantaged children are the most effective way to promote social mobility. While generous welfare systems, like Denmark’s, aim to reduce inequality, Heckman pointed out that they rely more on tax and transfer mechanisms than on successfully developing human capital through education. He also highlighted that family background and neighborhood choices have a significant impact on children’s outcomes, with wealthier families often benefiting more from universal services. Preserving the role of parental love and support, Heckman concluded, is essential in designing policies that foster equal opportunities from a young age.
How the Welfare State Affects Inequality and Social Mobility
You can watch Professor Heckman’s full lecture here. Please note that the slides are not publicly available. If you are interested in specific slides, please feel free to contact us.
James Heckman’s keynote was followed by a Research Slam, where researchers presented insights from their current projects. Doctoral student Michael Baltensperger talked about how regional revenue sharing affects tax rates and the economy. Doctoral student Maike Brandt presented findings from her study on risk taking in the context of financial decisions.
Media coverage
The American economist James Heckman criticizes social policy for neglecting the family too much. He also laments a growing victim mentality towards the state.
«It is imperative to change the way we look at education. We should invest in the foundation of school readiness from birth to age five.»
Nobel laureate Prof. James Heckman
Impressions
About the speaker
