‘I Told You So’: How economics can use past disasters to improve the future

What’s on offer?

The event will feature short, 5-minute presentations by some of Ireland’s top economic historians, discussing some of the catastrophes of the past and how they can be used to secure a brighter future. It will then have a general discussion, before concluding with an opportunity for audience participation and questions. 

What’s it about?

From economic downturn, housing crises, a global pandemic, war in Europe, climate change, it’s safe to say that the world we live in is tumultuous. How do we navigate these challenges, and whatever else can be thrown at us? What if we were able to use the past as a guide to build a better future?  

The Centre for Economics, Policy and History (CEPH) invites you to join several of Ireland’s finest economic historians for a roundtable discussion as they look back at some of the most disastrous periods of world history, and how we can use these to arm ourselves against an uncertain future. From the Great Famine to housing crises, and from recessions to pandemics, there is so much that can be learned from and improved upon. They say history repeats itself, just wait and see what economics has to say on the matter! 

Who’s leading the event?

Dr Chris Colvin, Reader in Economic History at Queen’s University Belfast. The event will be hosted and chaired by historian and comedian Dr Andrew Dorman. Panellists will be drawn from Queen’s University Belfast, Trinity College Dublin and Ulster University. 

Open to

Anyone is welcome

Event booking deadline