Faculty Spotlight - Peter Morgan

What research are you working on right now?

PM: I am working on several projects, but mostly on unemployment persistence.

What was your favorite paper to write, and why?

PM: My favorite paper was “Optimal Search”, mainly because, at the time, the central idea of the paper was almost uniformly believed to be wrong.  It was and is right.

What is your favorite class to teach, and why?

PM: I really have three favorites; Eco 666, 611 and 612.  Eco 666 because the microeconomic ideas are really valuable, both practically and as a basis for further research.  Eco 611 and 612 because most students get much less than they should from mathematical economics courses.  Some students are frightened by the technical material, idea and notation.  Others feel confident with their technical skills yet, if you ask them to give an economics explanation of an answer or of what the analysis teaches, they cannot, so what was the point?  Working with students to remedy these common serious deficiencies has always been an instructional challenge that I have enjoyed.

What was your favorite class as an undergrad?

PM: Economic history of Japan.

What is your top piece of advice for your students?

PM: Remember that you are a student, not an expert.  Asking questions is your job, not a display of some weakness.  Pay attention to every detail – leave nothing unquestioned.