Seminar: Richer Lives, Not Just Richer Economies
Come along to this FREE talk from University of Canterbury economics lecturer Stephen Hickson who will argue that economic growth is vital to human flourishing and to living better lives - and not just in poorer countries. As prominent macroeconomist Robert Barro said, “Economic growth is the part of macroeconomics that really matters.”
Date: Thursday 12th March 2026.
Time: 6 to 7pm.
Location: Tūranga | Central Library (Cathedral Square, Central City).
Cost: FREE.
Find out more about this talk on how economics impacts richer lives, including how to register (Humanitix). Bookings are recommended.
In 1800, worldwide life expectancy was around 30 years of age, where it had remained since time began. By 1900, it had nudged up to 32 globally and risen to 47 in the wealthier parts of the world. By 2023, it is almost 80 worldwide. If you’re not impressed by this modern miracle, then you’re hard to impress.
What role does economic growth play in this? After all, economic growth (as measured by Gross Domestic Product) is only a measure of the goods and services an economy produces. It’s not a measure of health, literacy, happiness, or many other things we care about. Some argue that we shouldn’t care about growth at all.
This talk is part of the Speaker Series @ Tūranga which offers thought provoking presentations on the latest in people, places, and culture. Lend us your ears and bring your questions on the second Thursday of each month.