Fed's Mester on Women in Economics

The transcript discusses the gender disparity in economics education, highlighting the importance of diversity in the field. It explores the concept of 'nudges' that influence career choices, particularly for women, and emphasizes the need for role models and support systems. The discussion also covers the impact of diversity on innovation and decision-making in economics, advocating for increased representation of women and minorities.

What was the speaker's initial observation about gender representation in their first advanced economics class?

• There were very few women.

• There were no women at all.

• There were more women than men.

• The class was evenly split between genders.

What is the primary purpose of 'nudges' as discussed in the video?

• To discourage students from pursuing economics.

• To slightly influence decision-making towards economics.

• To eliminate gender bias in all fields.

• To ensure equal pay for all economists.

How did the speaker's career path change due to the influence of professors?

• They became a professor at Barnard.

• They left academia entirely.

• They switched from mathematics to economics.

• They decided to pursue a career in mathematics.

What role do male allies play in diversifying the field of economics?

• They focus solely on financial aspects.

• They only support male economists.

• They are essential in supporting and promoting diversity.

• They are not involved in the process.

Why is it important to have diversity in the field of economics?

• To ensure the field remains stagnant.

• To focus only on macroeconomic issues.

• To address a wide range of questions and challenges.

• To limit the number of economists.

What is the current representation of African-American Black economists in the field?

• They are well-represented.

• They are underrepresented.

• They dominate the field.

• They are not interested in economics.

What is the relationship between diversity and decision-making in economics?

• Diversity enhances decision-making quality.

• Diversity has no impact on decision-making.

• Diversity complicates decision-making.

• Diversity leads to poorer decision-making.