In the second part of our conversation with Oliver Braunschweig we will apply the more general input on Plural Economics from the first episode to concepts of International Relations. We will have a critical discussion on economic growth, trade, climate change and social justice to see how plural economics can offer new input on these concepts that are often used but rarely put into perspective in IR.

Economic ideas and considerations are crucial in International relations, however they are often used without a thorough and critical examination. To present new perspectives we invited Oliver Braunschweig, a representative of Rethinking Economics Switzerland, to hear his opinion and take on current research and new promising thoughts on economics. For Oliver's general explanations on Plural Economics, its history, fundamental concepts and their critique of neoclassical economics listen to the first part of our conversation. 

Tune in for new food for thoughts, and let us know on Instagram @bariscope_ccc whether you are convinced by our discussion or if you would like to see other changes to IR.

We are excited to offer you such insightful and critical new approaches to International Relations!

Have a great week and stay critically curious,

Lea & Lukas

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Timestamps:

(2:27) Alternatives to Economic Growth

(7:10) How does Plural Economics take into account the needs of the environment?

(11:18) Can neoclassical market mechanisms be sufficient to save the environment or do we need more fundamental change?

(14:09) Which ideas exist to render trade more sustainable and inclusive? Where does trade have its limits?

(19:30) Development on the link between trade and inequality

(21:00) Does Plural Economics offer new "tools" to address inequality both within and between societies? How come that neoclassical theory has not addressed the rampant inequality in developed economies?

(27:00) Has populism been caused by economic factors such as inequality and does the economic design of our societies need to be changed in this regard?

(34:27) Feminist economics in general and the perspectives  feminist economics offers on the fact that a big share economic research is produced by white men in western countries. 

(43:00) Oliver presents Rethinking Economics Switzerland and the goals they pursue

(45:52) Suggestions for further readings and resources on Plural Economics

(48:10) Oliver's three tips to his 20-year old self

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More of Oliver's recommendations, specifically on trade: 

Chang, Ha-Joon (2002). Kicking Away the Ladder: Development Strategy in Historical Perspective: Policies and Institutions for Economic Development in Historical Perspective (Anthem Studies in Development and Globalization). Anthem Press

Klein, Matthew C., and Michael Pettis. 2020. Trade Wars Are Class Wars: How Rising Inequality Distorts the Global Economy and Threatens International Peace. New Haven: Yale University Press.

Milberg, W. and Winkler, Deborah (2013). Outsourcing Economics: Global Value Chains in Capitalist Development. Cambridge University Press.

Evans, P. (1995). Embedded Autonomy: States and Industrial Transformation. Princeton University Press, Princeton, NJ.

Wade, Robert (1990). Governing the Market. Princeton University Press.