Equity and Growth Through Knowledge Based Economies

Chris Benner discusses his books on equity and growth, focusing on the changing structure of employment and economic growth in metropolitan regions. He highlights case studies from Oklahoma City and Salt Lake City, emphasizing the role of knowledge communities in fostering innovation. The conversation also covers the changing nature of work, jobless recovery, and the need for a new social contract to address future employment challenges.

What is one of the key messages from Chris Benner's books regarding equitable societies?

• They lead to increased inequality.

• They tend to grow slower.

• They tend to grow better.

• They have no impact on growth.

How did Oklahoma City manage to turn around its economic fortunes?

• By reducing taxes.

• By increasing public sector investment.

• By focusing solely on technology.

• By attracting foreign investment.

What role did the Mormon Church play in Salt Lake City's economic development?

• It focused on tourism.

• It invested in technology startups.

• It acted as a social welfare system.

• It provided tax incentives.

What is an epistemic community?

• A network of financial investors.

• A group of people with the same political beliefs.

• A community focused on environmental issues.

• A knowledge community that fosters innovation.

What is a key principle for successful regions according to the research?

• Focusing solely on economic growth.

• Relying on a single institution for growth.

• Avoiding conflict at all costs.

• Engaging in principled conflict.

What is a 'jobless recovery'?

• A recovery where jobs are created rapidly.

• A recovery with economic growth but no job creation.

• A recovery focused on technology jobs.

• A recovery that only benefits large corporations.

What is suggested to support job mobility in the new economy?

• Long-term job contracts.

• Higher taxes on businesses.

• A social wage system.

• Increased automation.

What is a significant factor in the changing nature of work?

• The increase in manual labor.

• The rise of industrial jobs.

• The decline of technology.

• The shift to an informational economy.

How does public investment contribute to economic growth?

• By limiting educational opportunities.

• By focusing on short-term gains.

• By creating infrastructure for innovation.

• By reducing government spending.

What is a proposed solution for ensuring equitable compensation in society?

• Implementing a universal basic income.

• Eliminating taxes.

• Reducing public sector involvement.

• Focusing on individual achievements.