To Be a Good Economist, Economics Must "Die" in You!

"Imagine a scenario where we unshackle ourselves from the rigid doctrines of economic theories. What if we embrace a paradigm shift that transcends the traditional boundaries of our profession?"

A new chapter unfolded in the dimly lit auditorium, where the echoes of the previous discussion on AI and economics still lingered.

The air was charged with anticipation as economists gathered, not for a retreat but for an unconventional discourse—one that challenged the very essence of their profession.

The session's title sparked curiosity: "To Be a Good Economist, Economics Must 'Die' in You."

The stage was set for a thought-provoking dialogue that would redefine the boundaries of economic thinking. Amid this intellectual congregation were economists of diverse backgrounds, each carrying the weight of traditional economic frameworks and theories.

As the unconventional session began, a maverick economist took centre stage, challenging the status quo with a proposition that hung in the air like a radical manifesto: "What if, to truly understand and navigate the complexities of the modern world, we must let go of the conventional notions of economics that bind us? What if being a good economist requires us to allow 'economics' to 'die' within us?"

The atmosphere shifted from eager anticipation to a contemplative hush as the economist unfolded the idea. "Imagine a scenario where we unshackle ourselves from the rigid doctrines of economic theories. What if we embrace a paradigm shift that transcends the traditional boundaries of our profession?"

The conversation that ensued was a departure from the norm.

The economists delved into the notion that being a good economist meant unlearning, deconstructing, and dismantling preconceived notions. It wasn't about abandoning economic principles but about allowing them to evolve, adapt, and be reborn in a new context.

One economist, a veteran known for his adherence to classical economic thought, raised an eyebrow in scepticism. "Are we suggesting a rebellion against the very foundation of our discipline?" he queried, voicing the concerns that echoed in the minds of many.

The maverick economist responded metaphorically, "Not a rebellion, but a renaissance. To be a good economist in the 21st century, we must transcend the limitations of our intellectual comfort zones. It's about shedding the old skin of conventional economics to allow room for innovation, multidisciplinary collaboration, and a holistic understanding of the interconnected global landscape."

Photo by Gary Butterfield on Unsplash

As the conversation unfolded, the realisation dawned that being a good economist required a constant process of intellectual rebirth. It meant embracing insights from fields beyond economics—psychology, sociology, technology, and more. The room buzzed with a newfound energy, akin to a group of explorers setting sail into uncharted waters.

The maverick economist laid a roadmap for this transformative journey: "Let 'economics' 'die' in you by fostering intellectual curiosity, embracing the diversity of thought, and integrating insights from various disciplines. It's about cultivating a mindset that thrives on adaptation and evolution, rather than clinging to the comfort of static economic dogmas."

The dialogue concluded with a challenge to the economists in attendance: "In letting 'economics' 'die' within us, we pave the way for its rebirth in a form that aligns with the dynamic realities of our time. It's a call to be not just economists, but catalysts for change, architects of a new economic narrative."

As the session ended, the economists left the auditorium with a renewed purpose. The challenge was clear—to be a good economist, one must be willing to let go of the familiar and embrace the unknown. The journey of intellectual rebirth had begun, and the stage was set for a new era in the evolution of economic thinking.

My plea:

**Dear aspiring economists and experienced ones, BE CURIOUS.**🤔

🤔 What are your thoughts that being a good economist requires letting go of conventional economic notions?

💬 How do you perceive the role of interdisciplinary collaboration in reshaping economic thinking?

🌐 Have you encountered moments in your career where challenging established economic paradigms led to innovation and new perspectives?