Cogs and Monsters

Digital technology, big data, machine learning and AI are revolutionizing both the tools of economics and the phenomena it seeks to measure, understand, and shape. The profession faces enormous challenges and opportunities in responding effectively to these dizzying changes and in helping policymakers solve the world’s crises – from steering the Covid recovery and tackling inequality, to strengthening growth and addressing the climate emergency.

How should the theories, tools and techniques of economics adapt to better understand the nature of modern digital economies? And with the UK facing a decisive decade of economic change, how can the profession influence the policies and strategies need to navigate this shift?

At the launch of her new book, Cogs and Monsters: What Economics Is, and What It Should Be, Professor Diane Coyle will be joined by Professor Sir Tim Besley to discuss how economics can adapt to digital technologies, and realise its potential to play a hugely positive role in the twenty-first century.

The event will be open for a limited number of people to physically attend, with wine and nibbles available beforehand, and with copies of the book available for purchase and signing by Diane Coyle. It will also broadcast via YouTube and the Resolution Foundation website. Viewers will be able to submit questions to the panel before and during the event.