Defending the Dismal Science: Decoding Economic Policy Developments with Jason Furman

In the latest episode of Policy Punchline, Jason Furman, Harvard Professor and former Chair of the Council of Economic Advisers under President Obama, shares his expertise on some of the most pressing economic policy issues of our time. With a career spanning academia and public service, Furman provides a unique perspective on the intersection of economic theory and real-world policymaking.

The conversation covers a broad spectrum of topics, including economic resilience and the critical role of fiscal stimulus in navigating crises like the Great Recession of 2008 and the COVID-19 pandemic. Furman reflects on his role in shaping healthcare reform, discussing the complexities of implementing cost controls. He also emphasises the importance of candidly evaluating trade-offs in policymaking, advocating for honesty and transparency in economic analysis.

Looking to the future, Furman explores the transformative potential of artificial intelligence in the economy. He offers his thoughts on integrating AI into economics education and the ways it could reshape economic indicators, productivity, and labour markets.

This interview, conducted by Princeton students Alice McCarthy '27 and David Piegaro '25, is part of the Policy Punchline podcast series. Supported by Princeton's Julius Rabinowitz Center for Public Policy and Finance, the series aims to foster dialogue on critical public policy and finance issues, connecting listeners with leading experts from around the world.

Join us for this insightful conversation as Jason Furman unpacks the challenges and opportunities shaping economic policy in the 21st century.

Jason Furman