Economic Freedom 2007
London
The 20th century put an ideological debate to rest: where institutions protecting economic freedom are respected peace and prosperity occurred. The reverse was also observed – stagnation, decline and conflict marked the countries where large governments obstructed economic activity. Yet we are still told by well-meaning activists that we must abandon the rule of law and individual liberties in order to meet unobjectionable societal objectives.
In order to demonstrate how economic freedom creates opportunities for societies to grow and deal with perceived problems, Dr Robert Lawson helped construct the first Economic Freedom of the World Index over ten years ago. The annual updates provide an influential tool for think tanks seeking to promote the institutions of the free society around the world.
Dr Lawson will discuss how the Index has altered the ideological debate and provide his views on where the struggle for economic freedom will be most vigorously opposed in years to come.
Professor Robert Lawson, Professor of Economics and George H. Moor Chair at Capital University in Columbus, Ohio, USA
Robert Lawson has professional publications in several renowned academic journals and is advisor to at least four US-based think tanks. In his leisure time, he runs marathons and ultra-marathons, climbs mountains, and plays 19th Century-rules baseball.
