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Institute of Economic Affairs & Vinson Centre Conference

On morality, human behaviour and economics

Experience an engaging in-person event that delves into the connections between morality, human behaviour, and economics. This gathering will feature a diverse group of experts sharing their insights and expertise. It’s a fantastic opportunity to participate in discussions, network with like-minded individuals, and learn from leaders in the field. Don’t miss this chance to deepen your understanding and make valuable connections!

Schedule for the Conference

9.45am – Coffee and welcome.

10am – Welcome by Professor James Tooley (Vice-Chancellor, University of Buckingham), Dr Juan Castañeda, Director of the Vinson Centre (University of Buckingham) and Tom Clougherty (Executive Director, Institute of Economic Affairs).

10.15am – Opening lecture by Dr Richard Turnbull (Centre for Ethics, Markets, and Enterprise) – ‘The moral case for the market’

Session 1 – On the moral foundations of the market economy

Chairperson: Lord Matthew Elliott (Jobs Foundation)

11am – Professor Mikko Arevuo (Cranfield University) on ‘Adam Smith’s Theory of Moral Sentiments: the dichotomy of self-interest and equality’

11.30am – Professor Pedro Schwartz (Camilo José Cela University) on ‘Smith vs. Mandeville: on morality and ethics in a market economy’

12pm – Dr Elena Leontjeva (Lithuanian Free Market Institute) on ‘’The moral case for capitalism’

12.30pm – Discussion

1pm – Break for lunch

Session 2 – Faith in Markets?

Chairperson: Tom Clougherty (IEA)

2pm – Martin Vander Weyer (The Spectator) – ‘Why We’ve Lost Faith in Capitalism’

2.30pm – Dr. Benedikt Koehler (IEA) on ‘The question of profit and wealth in Islam, Judaism and Christian religion’

3pm – Professor Philip Booth (St Mary’s University) on ‘The economics of Pope Francis – markets, society and the state’

3.30pm – Discussion

4pm 4.15 pm – Short coffee break

Session 3 – On social justice

Chairperson: Professor Paul Dragos Aligica (University of Bucharest and George Mason University)

4.15pm – TBC on ‘Social justice from a classical liberal perspective’

4.45pm – Dr. Billy Christmas (King’s College London) on ‘Property Rights and Social Justice in the Early Church Fathers’

5.15pm – Dr Chris O’Leary on ‘Welfare beyond the state’

5.45pm – Discussion

6.15pm – Drinks reception. End of formal proceedings of the conference.

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