Podcast Summary
Austrian economics seminar: Close readings and critical conversations are essential for a deep understanding of Austrian economics, which can't be fully grasped through free online resources alone.
Key takeaway from Karis Lambert's reflection on her experience at the Rothbard Graduate Seminar (RGS) is that engaging in close readings of Austrian economic works and participating in critical conversations with scholars and motivated students is crucial for a deep understanding of the Austrian tradition of economics. While it's possible to access Austrian economists' works for free online, thoroughly reading the major tomes requires discipline and dedication. Lambert admits that she had a superficial understanding of Mises' "Human Action" before attending RGS, despite her familiarity with Austrian ideas from podcasts and recorded lectures. The opportunity to engage in critical conversations with scholars and students at RGS allowed her to gain a more profound understanding of Austrian economics, which she attributes to most of her present knowledge in the field. RGS is a valuable experience for those interested in studying the Austrian tradition of economics, as it encourages intensive reading and discussion of the major works in the field.
Austrian economic tradition: Engaging with scholars in the Austrian economic tradition provides a clear and productive learning environment through rigorous lectures, productive discussions, and informal conversations.
Learning from my participation in the Austrian Scholars Conference (RGS) is the value of engaging with like-minded scholars and students in the Austrian economic tradition. My experience at the Mises Institute surpassed my expectations, with the lectures, discussion sessions, and informal conversations providing a clear and productive learning environment. The lectures by RGS faculty, including Joseph Salerno, David Gordon, Jeffrey Herbiner, Peter Klein, Patrick Newman, and Mark Thornton, were particularly helpful for graduate students like myself. They provided a rigorous yet concise understanding of praxeological reasoning, anchoring productive and focused group discussions. Despite some initial confusion during my first RGS attendance, the experience motivated me to deepen my understanding of Human Action through multiple readings and ultimately prepared me for teaching the text at the undergraduate level. Overall, RGS provided an invaluable opportunity to connect with scholars, expand my knowledge, and strengthen my ability to clarify and explain complex economic ideas.
Rothbard Graduate Seminar impact: Immersive environment at RGS transformed understanding and appreciation of Austrian economics through formal and informal interactions with scholars and peers, revealing it as a distinct and cohesive way of thinking
Learning from my experience at the Rothbard Graduate Seminar (RGS) was the transformative impact of the immersive environment on my understanding and appreciation of Austrian economics. The formal discussion sessions were valuable, but the informal interactions during meals and late-night conversations at Rothbard Village were equally enlightening. These opportunities to engage with fellow students and esteemed scholars allowed me to gain new perspectives, challenge my assumptions, and deepen my understanding of Mises' Human Action. I came to realize that the Austrian approach is not just a collection of conclusions, but a systematic and cohesive way of thinking about economics that contrasts sharply with the prevailing mathematical and field-oriented methods in academia today. The RGS experience motivated me deeply and has remained a cherished memory that continues to inspire me in my academic pursuits.
Human Action and Austrian Economics: Mises' perspective on economics as the study of human action emphasizes interdisciplinary approaches and open-mindedness, making the Research Grants Seminar an opportunity for scholars to engage in meaningful discussions and gain new insights, potentially contributing to a world of peace and prosperity.
That economics, according to Mises, is an interconnected study of human action. This perspective, which has influenced the scholar's academic journey since 2020, emphasizes the importance of understanding the fundamental divergence in economic approaches. The ideal candidate for the Research Grants Seminar (RGS) should have a genuine passion for studying the sciences of human action and an open mind to consider alternative perspectives. The interdisciplinary nature of Austrian economics, as demonstrated by Mises and other great Austrian economists, makes RGS an excellent opportunity for scholars from various backgrounds to engage in meaningful discussions and gain new insights. By embracing this perspective, scholars may contribute ideas that could lead to a world of peace and prosperity, transforming the current positivist mainstream.