International Expert Talk Series by Dr Devesh Rustagi -Associate professor in Economics University of Warwick, UK to present talk on “How cultural values norms and institutions shape economic outcomes and policy effectiveness”
The International Expert Talk Series hosted by the Office of International Affairs (OIA) and the Department of Economics was organised with the aim of providing an in-depth economic analysis of how historical systems of exploitation and social discrimination continue to shape contemporary economic outcomes. The primary aim of the event was to examine the long-term economic ramifications of slavery in Africa and caste-based discrimination, particularly untouchability, in India, through rigorous academic inquiry grounded in development economics and economic history.
Dr. Devesh Rustagi delivered a comprehensive and analytically rich lecture, drawing upon empirical data, theoretical frameworks, case studies, and comparative analyses. His discussion on the economic impact of slavery in Africa highlighted critical consequences such as the loss of human capital, disruption of social structures, and long-term institutional weaknesses. By paralleling these effects with caste-based discrimination and untouchability in India, Dr. Rustagi illuminated how entrenched systems of inequality continue to influence development trajectories and economic disparities.
The International Expert Talk concluded successfully, offering participants a profound and thought-provoking exploration of the economic legacy of historical discrimination. The session commenced with opening remarks by Prof. A. M. Jose, Head of Amity School of Economics, who introduced the distinguished speaker and contextualised the relevance of the topic “How cultural values, norms, and institutions shape economic outcomes and policy effectiveness” in the present global and social scenario. His introduction effectively set the academic tone for the lecture.