As the dominant field within the social sciences, the influence of economics on public policy discourse is virtually unchallenged.
Economists dominate local, national, and international decision-making bodies.
However, in spite of its acknowledged successes, the core beliefs of the economics profession have come under increasing criticism. The quickest way to success as an academic economist has been to concentrate on mathematics rather than learning about how actual economies work. Rensselaer's Economics Department has taken important steps toward addressing this challenge. Our department has had the foresight to lay the groundwork for a new approach to solving real-world problems. The training and research in our department focuses on sustainable livelihoods, stable communities, and a resilient environment.