HIUS 713: Interview with Dr. David Laidler скачать в хорошем качестве

HIUS 713: Interview with Dr. David Laidler

Jason Jones I recently had the honor of conducting an oral interview with Dr. David Laidler, a distinguished economist and professor emeritus at the University of Western Ontario. This interview, centered around the hyperinflation in Germany in the 1920s, the lessons learned from that, and later economic theories that addressed it, employs storytelling to breathe life into historical events and figures, offering a deeper understanding and connection. Dr. Laidler’s detailed narratives answer the fundamental questions of who, what, when, where, why, and how, providing a comprehensive insight into the intricate world of monetary policy and the role of money in shaping inflation and economic fluctuations. To ensure a smooth and thoughtful conversation, I shared some questions with Dr. Laidler beforehand. This approach, avoiding any surprises, allowed him time to reflect and prepare comprehensive and informative responses. Throughout our discussion, Dr. Laidler generously shared his extensive knowledge, offering historical context for the events leading to Germany's hyperinflation and elucidating the social and political repercussions of such economic turmoil. He addressed the challenges policymakers faced and the critical decisions made during 1920s Germany and how those decisions were applied to later U.S economic policy. Our conversation also touched upon Dr. Laidler's collaboration with eminent economists Milton Friedman and Anna Schwartz, underscoring his significant contributions to the monetarist tradition. His emphasis on the crucial role of money in determining inflation and economic fluctuations was a consistent theme, reinforcing the importance of understanding economic history. This enlightening interview not only sheds light on the impact of hyperinflation using perhaps the best case study of hyperinflation- the German economy and society during the interwar period - but also serves as a valuable educational tool. It could significantly contribute to a public history project, enhancing public comprehension of monetary policy's complexities. Moreover, it offers a historical lens through which to view and inform contemporary economic and policy issues related to inflation and monetary policy.