The story of austerity is also an origin story for the rapid ascent and awesome political power of modern economics. It is true today, but it was not after World War I, that capitalism is the only show in town.

In this talk, Prof. Clara E. Mattei will explain the inner workings of researching the origin story of austerity that integrates and studies the connections between economists’ theoretical writings, political interventions, and public commentaries.

About the speaker
Clara E. Mattei is an Associate Professor in Economics at The New School for Social Research, New York City, and was a member of the Institute for Advanced Studies at Princeton during 2018 – 2019.

Her research focuses on the relationship between fiscal, monetary, and industrial policies in contemporary capitalism. In particular, she studies the logic of austerity policies and how they shape our society. Her recent book, Capital Order: How Economists Invented Austerity and Paved the Way to Fascism (University of Chicago Press, 2022) has received widespread acclamation and was selected by Financial Times as one of the Best Books of the Year.

“A must-read, with key lessons for the future.”—Thomas Piketty

Please visit her website to see more of her recent engagements.

This is an in-person only event.

For catering purposes, kindly RSVP to saldru@uct.ac.za
Lunch Time: 12:30, light lunch to be served in the School of Economics staff lounge, Middle Campus