Dirk Bezemer - Growth and Crisis: The Two Faces of Credit

Dirk, a professor of economics, discusses his project on understanding the interaction between bank credit flows and economic growth, highlighting the dual role of finance in fostering growth and causing crises. He explains the empirical approach using data from European and OECD countries and the integration of agent-based models to analyze economic processes. Dirk shares his motivation rooted in past experiences and his teaching approach to engage students in new economic thinking.

What is the main idea of Dirk's project regarding bank credit flows?

How do banks contribute to economic growth according to the text?

What are the two sides of the credit and debt relationship mentioned in the text?

What challenges did the credit crisis pose to the economics profession?

What is the significance of agent-based models in understanding economic processes?

How did the experience in Albania during the 90s influence Dirk's research interests?

What are some of the recommended readings for students studying finance and growth?