Hold your horses, economics enthusiasts, as we embark on an exhilarating canter through the life and accomplishments of Deirdre McCloskey. This distinguished economist, historian, and rhetorician has carved out a unique niche in the field, challenging conventional economic wisdom and offering fresh perspectives on the importance of rhetoric in economic thought. So saddle up and join us for this ultra-detailed exploration of McCloskey’s life and work, sprinkled with just the right amount of horse-related humor.
Born on September 11, 1942, in Ann Arbor, Michigan, Deirdre McCloskey (originally Donald McCloskey) demonstrated an early aptitude for academia. She pursued her undergraduate education at Harvard University, where she studied economics and graduated with honors in 1964. Never one to shy away from a challenge, McCloskey continued her academic career, earning a Ph.D. in economics from Harvard in 1970.
Throughout her professional life, McCloskey has held various academic positions at prestigious institutions, including the University of Chicago, where she taught for over a decade. Much like a well-trained dressage horse, she has showcased her versatility and expertise in numerous areas, ranging from economic history and philosophy to the study of rhetoric.
However, it is her groundbreaking work on the role of rhetoric in economics that truly sets McCloskey apart from her peers. In her seminal book, “The Rhetoric of Economics” (1985), she explores the idea that economic arguments are not merely based on scientific logic but also rely heavily on persuasive language and storytelling. McCloskey asserts that economists must acknowledge the importance of rhetoric in shaping economic thought and embrace its role in enhancing their discipline.
In addition to her contributions to the field of rhetoric, McCloskey has made significant strides in economic history and the study of ethics in economics. Her magnum opus, the “Bourgeois Era” trilogy, consisting of “The Bourgeois Virtues” (2006), “Bourgeois Dignity” (2010), and “Bourgeois Equality” (2016), offers a sweeping analysis of the factors underpinning the modern capitalist system. She argues that the development of “bourgeois virtues” and the respect for individual dignity and equality led to the unprecedented economic growth and prosperity witnessed since the 18th century.
Beyond her scholarly achievements, McCloskey’s personal journey is also a story of courage and resilience. In 1995, at the age of 53, she underwent gender transition, becoming one of the most prominent transgender academics in the world. Her experiences as a transgender woman have informed her work, leading her to challenge conventional wisdom and embrace the power of individual identity.
As we reach the homestretch of our journey through Deirdre McCloskey’s life and work, it is clear that her trailblazing contributions to the field of economics have left an indelible mark. A champion of rhetoric and a staunch defender of the importance of ethics in economics, she continues to push boundaries and inspire a new generation of economists to think beyond the confines of traditional economic thought.
So, as we unsaddle and reflect on this exhilarating ride, let’s tip our riding hats to the fearless spirit and intellectual curiosity of Deirdre McCloskey. Her dedication to understanding the nuances of economic thought serves as a powerful reminder that, much like a well-trained horse, the field of economics can achieve its greatest potential when guided by both logic and artistry.