Robert Higgs Quotes
Robert Higgs is an American economist and historian known for his work on the effects of government intervention on economic growth and individual liberty. He is a senior fellow in political economy at the Independent Institute and has written extensively on topics such as the Great Depression, the…Read More
Robert Higgs is an American economist and historian known for his work on the effects of government intervention on economic growth and individual liberty. He is a senior fellow in political economy at the Independent Institute and has written extensively on topics such as the Great Depression, the growth of government, and the impact of war on the economy. Higgs is best known for his book “Crisis and Leviathan: Critical Episodes in the Growth of American Government,” which examines the role of government in times of crisis and how it often leads to an expansion of government power. He has also published numerous articles and essays in academic journals and popular media outlets, earning him a reputation as a leading authority on the relationship between government and the economy. Higgs’ work has been praised for its thorough research and insightful analysis, making him a highly influential figure in the field of political economy.Read Less
Robert Higgs is an American economist and historian known for his work on the effects of government intervention on economic growth and individual liberty. He is a senior fellow in political economy at the Independent Institute and has written extensively on topics such as the Great Depression, the growth of government, and the impact of war on the economy. Higgs is best known for his book “Crisis and Leviathan: Critical Episodes in the Growth of American Government,” which examines the role of government in times of crisis and how it often leads to an expansion of government power. He has also published numerous articles and essays in academic journals and popular media outlets, earning him a reputation as a leading authority on the relationship between government and the economy. Higgs’ work has been praised for its thorough research and insightful analysis, making him a highly influential figure in the field of political economy.
Robert Higgs Career Highlights
- Higgs received his Bachelor’s degree in economics from the University of Washington in 1965, and his Master’s and PhD in economics from Johns Hopkins University in 1966 and 1968, respectively.
- He began his academic career as an assistant professor at the University of Washington, and later held positions at the University of California, Berkeley and the University of Texas at Austin.
- In 1977, Higgs joined the staff of the Institute for Humane Studies, where he served as a senior research fellow until 1994.
- He has also held positions at the Independent Institute, the Cato Institute, and the Mercatus Center at George Mason University.
- Higgs has published numerous books and articles on economic history, including his most well-known work, “Crisis and Leviathan: Critical Episodes in the Growth of American Government,” which examines the growth of government during times of crisis.
- He has received several awards for his work, including the Gary Schlarbaum Award for Lifetime Defense of Liberty in 2007 and the Julian L. Simon Memorial Award in 2010.
Key Contributions by Robert Higgs
- Higgs is best known for his concept of “regime uncertainty,” which he developed in his book “Depression, War, and Cold War: Studies in Political Economy.” This concept explains how government policies and actions can create uncertainty for businesses and investors, leading to economic stagnation.
- He has also made significant contributions to the study of the Great Depression, arguing that government intervention, particularly in the form of price controls and regulations, prolonged and worsened the economic downturn.
- Higgs has also written extensively on the effects of government regulation on economic growth and development, arguing that excessive regulation can stifle innovation and entrepreneurship.
- He has been a vocal critic of government intervention in the economy, advocating for limited government and free market principles.
What Sets Robert Higgs Apart
- Higgs’ work is characterized by his rigorous use of economic theory and historical evidence to analyze the effects of government policies on the economy.
- He is known for his ability to communicate complex economic concepts in a clear and accessible manner, making his work widely influential among both academics and the general public.
- Higgs’ research has had a significant impact on the field of political economy, challenging conventional wisdom and providing a unique perspective on the role of government in economic growth and development.
Takeaways
- Robert Higgs’ work highlights the importance of understanding the effects of government policies on the economy, particularly during times of crisis.
- His concept of “regime uncertainty” has been widely cited and has influenced economic policy discussions.
- Higgs’ research serves as a reminder of the potential negative consequences of excessive government intervention in the economy, and the importance of limited government and free market principles in promoting economic growth and prosperity.
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