Economists
Bubble
Professional
Economists are professionals who study how societies allocate resources, analyzing production, distribution, and consumption using math...Show more
Economists
Bubble
Professional
Economists are professionals who study how societies allocate resources, analyzing production, distribution, and consumption using mathematical models, theory, and empirical data. They form a distinct global community linked through academia, government, finance, and international organizations.
Statistics
Estimated Global Reach
300K
Popularity
Medium
Regional Hotspot
Worldwide
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General Q&A
The economists bubble centers on analyzing economic systems using rigorous theory, mathematical models, and empirical data to understand how people, markets, and governments allocate resources.
Community Q&A
The economists bubble centers on analyzing economic systems using rigorous theory, mathematical models, and empirical data to understand how people, markets, and governments allocate resources.
Economists connect through peer-reviewed journals, annual conferences (like the ASSA meetings), professional societies, and online forums such as EconTwitter.
Community Q&A
Summary
Key Findings
Credential Signaling
Identity MarkersEconomists heavily signal status through elite PhD programs, prestigious journal publications, and affiliations, creating a hierarchy insiders accept but outsiders often overlook.
Debate Rituals
Social NormsPublic intellectual exchanges follow rigorous norms — with references to canonical debates like Keynesian vs. neoclassical framing forming a cultural script insiders instinctively know.
Policy Impact
Insider PerspectiveMembers prioritize policy relevance as a key part of their identity, balancing abstract models with real-world influence; outsiders often miss this pragmatic dimension behind theoretical work.
Platform Currency
Community DynamicsIn addition to journals, active participation on EconTwitter and conferences functions as a modern social space shaping careers and reputations, a dynamic invisible to outsiders.
Sub Groups
Academic Economists
University-based researchers and professors focused on theoretical and empirical economics.
Policy Economists
Economists working in government agencies, think tanks, and international organizations shaping policy.
Financial/Industry Economists
Professionals applying economic analysis in finance, consulting, and the private sector.
Student Economists
Graduate and undergraduate students engaged in economics study and early-career networking.
Online Economics Enthusiasts
Individuals participating in online forums and social media discussions about economics topics.
Statistics and Demographics
Platform Distribution
1 / 3
Universities & Colleges
25%Academic economists are primarily based in universities and colleges, where research, teaching, and scholarly collaboration occur.
Educational Settingsoffline
Conferences & Trade Shows
20%Economists regularly engage at academic and professional conferences, which are central to sharing research and networking.
Professional Settingsoffline
Professional Associations
15%Organizations like the American Economic Association provide a hub for professional development, networking, and community building among economists.
Professional Settingsoffline
Gender & Age Distribution
Ideological & Social Divides
Community Development
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Insider Knowledge
Terminology
Greeting Salutations
Example Conversation
Insider
Have you seen the latest AER issue?
Outsider
What do you mean by AER issue?
Insider
AER stands for American Economic Review, a top economics journal; economists often discuss its latest research articles.
Outsider
Ah, thanks! Sounds like it’s a key publication in your field.
Cultural Context
Discussing current publications is a common way economists start conversations, showing engagement with recent research.
Inside Jokes
'Correlations don't imply causation!'
This phrase humorously highlights economists' obsession with distinguishing true causal relationships from mere statistical associations, often repeated when outsiders misinterpret data.
Facts & Sayings
„Utility Maximization“
Economists use this phrase to describe the fundamental idea that individuals or firms aim to get the highest satisfaction or profit possible given constraints.
„Pareto Efficiency“
A state where resources are allocated in a way that no one can be made better off without making someone else worse off; often used to evaluate policy trade-offs.
„Natural Experiments“
Refers to observational study settings that approximate randomized experiments, allowing economists to infer causal relationships when controlled experiments are not feasible.
„Counterfactuals“
Hypothetical scenarios used in economic analysis to understand what would have happened in the absence of a particular event or policy.
Unwritten Rules
Always cite seminal papers when discussing theories.
Referencing foundational work signals respect and situates your argument within established literature.
Dress professionally at academic conferences.
Maintains decorum and signals seriousness about scholarly engagement.
Avoid overstating conclusions of empirical research.
Economists value cautious interpretation to preserve credibility and acknowledge complexity.
Engage respectfully in debates, even when disagreements are strong.
Demonstrates professionalism and contributes to productive intellectual discourse.
Fictional Portraits
1 / 3
Sofia, 32
Policy AnalystfemaleSofia works in a government think tank, applying economic theory to design policies that impact social welfare and public budgets.
Evidence-based decision makingTransparencySocial impact
Motivations
- To influence effective economic policies that improve societal welfare
- To keep up to date with the latest economic research and methodologies
- To build a professional network with economists worldwide
Challenges
- Translating complex economic models into actionable policy recommendations
- Navigating political constraints while proposing evidence-based policies
- Accessing up-to-date, reliable data for empirical analysis
Platforms
LinkedIn groups for economistsAcademic conferencesGovernment policy forums
Marginal costUtility maximizationEndogeneity
Insights & Background
Historical Timeline
Main Subjects
People
Adam Smith
Often called the father of modern economics for The Wealth of Nations and his articulation of the invisible hand concept.↗
Classical PioneerMoral PhilosopherFree Trade
John Maynard Keynes
Founder of Keynesian economics, influential for macroeconomic policy prescriptions on government intervention and fiscal stimulus.↗
Demand Management1930s BritainPolicy Architect
Milton Friedman
Leader of the monetarist school; emphasized the role of money supply in controlling inflation and championed free markets.↗
Chicago SchoolMonetarist IconLibertarian
Karl Marx
Critic of capitalism whose theories on class struggle and surplus value inspired heterodox and political-economic debates.
Labor CritiqueHistorical MaterialismRevolutionary
Friedrich Hayek
Key figure in the Austrian School; warned against central planning and defended price signals in market coordination.
Austrian SchoolSpontaneous OrderRoad To Serfdom
David Ricardo
Introduced comparative advantage and rent theory, foundational for international trade analysis.
Comparative AdvantageClassical EconomistTrade Theory
Paul Samuelson
Pioneered modern mathematical economics and authored the best-selling textbook that educated generations.
Neo-Classical SynthesisPedagogical GiantWelfare Economics
Amartya Sen
Developed welfare economics and capability approach, integrating development, ethics, and social choice theory.
Development EconomistSocial ChoiceEthical Focus
Joseph Stiglitz
Critic of market failures and globalization’s downsides; Nobel laureate who shapes development and information economics.
Information EconomicsPolicy CriticGlobalization
Janet Yellen
Former Fed chair and economist known for labor market analysis and dovish monetary policy leadership.
Central BankerLabor FocusDovish Stance
1 / 3
1 / 3
People
Adam Smith
Often called the father of modern economics for The Wealth of Nations and his articulation of the invisible hand concept.↗
Classical PioneerMoral PhilosopherFree Trade
John Maynard Keynes
Founder of Keynesian economics, influential for macroeconomic policy prescriptions on government intervention and fiscal stimulus.↗
Demand Management1930s BritainPolicy Architect
Milton Friedman
Leader of the monetarist school; emphasized the role of money supply in controlling inflation and championed free markets.↗
Chicago SchoolMonetarist IconLibertarian
Karl Marx
Critic of capitalism whose theories on class struggle and surplus value inspired heterodox and political-economic debates.
Labor CritiqueHistorical MaterialismRevolutionary
Friedrich Hayek
Key figure in the Austrian School; warned against central planning and defended price signals in market coordination.
Austrian SchoolSpontaneous OrderRoad To Serfdom
David Ricardo
Introduced comparative advantage and rent theory, foundational for international trade analysis.
Comparative AdvantageClassical EconomistTrade Theory
Paul Samuelson
Pioneered modern mathematical economics and authored the best-selling textbook that educated generations.
Neo-Classical SynthesisPedagogical GiantWelfare Economics
Amartya Sen
Developed welfare economics and capability approach, integrating development, ethics, and social choice theory.
Development EconomistSocial ChoiceEthical Focus
Joseph Stiglitz
Critic of market failures and globalization’s downsides; Nobel laureate who shapes development and information economics.
Information EconomicsPolicy CriticGlobalization
Janet Yellen
Former Fed chair and economist known for labor market analysis and dovish monetary policy leadership.
Central BankerLabor FocusDovish Stance
First Steps & Resources
Get-Started Steps
Time to basics: 3-4 weeks
1
Learn Core Economic Concepts
3-5 hoursBasic
Summary: Study foundational ideas like supply, demand, markets, and incentives using introductory materials.
Details: Begin by immersing yourself in the basic vocabulary and frameworks that economists use. Focus on understanding supply and demand, opportunity cost, marginal analysis, market equilibrium, and incentives. Use introductory textbooks, open-access syllabi, or reputable explainer videos. Take notes, draw diagrams, and try to explain concepts in your own words. Beginners often struggle with abstract terminology and graphical analysis—don’t rush; revisit concepts until they’re clear. This foundational knowledge is crucial for interpreting economic arguments and engaging with the community. Evaluate your progress by being able to define key terms, sketch basic graphs, and answer simple scenario questions. Mastery here sets the stage for deeper exploration and meaningful participation in discussions.
2
Follow Reputable Economic News
1-2 hours (ongoing)Basic
Summary: Regularly read economic news from respected sources to see real-world application of concepts.
Details: Stay updated with current economic events by following reputable news outlets and economic sections of major publications. Focus on how economic concepts are applied to analyze policy, markets, and global events. Beginners may feel overwhelmed by jargon or data-heavy articles; start by reading summaries or opinion pieces, then progress to more technical reports. Take notes on unfamiliar terms and look them up. This habit helps you connect theory to practice and exposes you to the issues economists debate. Progress is measured by your ability to summarize key points, recognize economic reasoning in news, and discuss recent events with others.
3
Engage in Online Economics Forums
2-3 hours (ongoing)Intermediate
Summary: Join online communities to ask questions, discuss topics, and observe debates among economists and students.
Details: Participate in online forums or discussion boards dedicated to economics. Start by reading existing threads to understand the tone and depth of discussion. Introduce yourself, ask beginner questions, and contribute thoughtfully to ongoing conversations. Avoid making unsupported claims—cite sources or ask for clarification. Common challenges include feeling intimidated by technical discussions or fear of making mistakes; remember, most communities welcome earnest learners. This step is vital for building confidence, networking, and learning how economists communicate. Progress is shown by increased comfort in posting, receiving feedback, and engaging in respectful debate.
1
Learn Core Economic Concepts
3-5 hoursBasic
Summary: Study foundational ideas like supply, demand, markets, and incentives using introductory materials.
Details: Begin by immersing yourself in the basic vocabulary and frameworks that economists use. Focus on understanding supply and demand, opportunity cost, marginal analysis, market equilibrium, and incentives. Use introductory textbooks, open-access syllabi, or reputable explainer videos. Take notes, draw diagrams, and try to explain concepts in your own words. Beginners often struggle with abstract terminology and graphical analysis—don’t rush; revisit concepts until they’re clear. This foundational knowledge is crucial for interpreting economic arguments and engaging with the community. Evaluate your progress by being able to define key terms, sketch basic graphs, and answer simple scenario questions. Mastery here sets the stage for deeper exploration and meaningful participation in discussions.
2
Follow Reputable Economic News
1-2 hours (ongoing)Basic
Summary: Regularly read economic news from respected sources to see real-world application of concepts.
Details: Stay updated with current economic events by following reputable news outlets and economic sections of major publications. Focus on how economic concepts are applied to analyze policy, markets, and global events. Beginners may feel overwhelmed by jargon or data-heavy articles; start by reading summaries or opinion pieces, then progress to more technical reports. Take notes on unfamiliar terms and look them up. This habit helps you connect theory to practice and exposes you to the issues economists debate. Progress is measured by your ability to summarize key points, recognize economic reasoning in news, and discuss recent events with others.
3
Engage in Online Economics Forums
2-3 hours (ongoing)Intermediate
Summary: Join online communities to ask questions, discuss topics, and observe debates among economists and students.
Details: Participate in online forums or discussion boards dedicated to economics. Start by reading existing threads to understand the tone and depth of discussion. Introduce yourself, ask beginner questions, and contribute thoughtfully to ongoing conversations. Avoid making unsupported claims—cite sources or ask for clarification. Common challenges include feeling intimidated by technical discussions or fear of making mistakes; remember, most communities welcome earnest learners. This step is vital for building confidence, networking, and learning how economists communicate. Progress is shown by increased comfort in posting, receiving feedback, and engaging in respectful debate.
4
Practice Data Interpretation Skills
2-4 hoursIntermediate
Summary: Work with basic economic data sets to interpret graphs, tables, and trends using free online tools.
Details: Economists rely heavily on data. Start by accessing publicly available economic data sets (like unemployment rates, inflation, or GDP) and practice interpreting graphs and tables. Use spreadsheet software or free online visualization tools to manipulate and visualize data. Beginners often misinterpret axes, scales, or causality—double-check your understanding and compare your interpretations with published analyses. This step builds quantitative literacy and helps you appreciate the empirical side of economics. Evaluate progress by accurately describing trends, identifying anomalies, and explaining what the data might imply about economic conditions.
5
Attend Public Economics Lectures
1-2 hours per lectureIntermediate
Summary: Watch or attend public lectures, webinars, or seminars by economists to hear expert perspectives and current research.
Details: Many universities, think tanks, and organizations offer free public lectures or webinars featuring economists discussing current research or policy issues. Search for events online or browse recorded lectures. Take notes, jot down questions, and reflect on how the presentations connect to what you’ve learned. Beginners may find the content dense; focus on grasping the main arguments and noting unfamiliar concepts for later study. This exposure helps you understand the breadth of the field, current debates, and the style of professional discourse. Progress is measured by your ability to summarize talks, identify key arguments, and relate them to foundational concepts.
Welcoming Practices
„Mentorship during conferences“
Senior economists often take time to guide newcomers through networking and understanding current debates, fostering integration.
„‘Reading groups’ on recent papers“
New members are often invited to join informal groups where papers are discussed critically, helping build community and knowledge.
Beginner Mistakes
Using economic jargon without understanding
Take time to learn key concepts and context before applying jargon to avoid confusion or miscommunication.
Ignoring the importance of peer-reviewed sources
Prioritize reading and citing peer-reviewed research to build credibility and avoid relying on unvetted information.
Pathway to Credibility
Tap a pathway step to view details
Obtain a PhD in Economics
The doctoral degree is generally necessary for research credibility and entry into academic or advanced policy roles.
Publish in flagship journals like the American Economic Review
Publishing respected articles establishes an economist's reputation and contribution to the field.
Present at major conferences such as the ASSA meetings
Sharing work and networking at these events connects economists to the community and exposes them to critical feedback.
Facts
Regional Differences
North America
North American economists tend to emphasize empirical, data-driven methods and randomized controlled trials in research.
Europe
European economists often maintain stronger traditions of theoretical modeling and place more emphasis on institutional analysis.
Misconceptions
Misconception #1
Economists only care about stock markets and money.
Reality
Economists study a vast range of topics including education, health, inequality, and environmental policy, using rigorous analysis beyond finances.
Misconception #2
Economic models predict the future with certainty.
Reality
Models are simplified frameworks to understand possibilities and trade-offs; economists emphasize their assumptions and limitations.
Misconception #3
Economists always agree on policy recommendations.
Reality
There is vibrant debate and disagreement within economics, reflecting different schools of thought, evidence interpretations, and values.
Clothing & Styles
Business Casual Attire
Economists often dress professionally but comfortably for conferences and seminars, signaling seriousness while acknowledging the academic setting.
