Silk Lectures Featuring Nobel Laureates: Joel Mokyr

Joel Mokyr, the 2025 Nobel Laureate in Economics, will discuss the cycle of progress and how innovation inevitably displaces existing techniques and methods, often creating uncertainty and discontent along the way. He will also explore the future of innovation. While some believe that mankind is doomed to fewer new ideas and increasing competition from artificial intelligence, Mokyr remains optimistic that human ingenuity and believes economic progress will continue. In short, he believes—or at least hopes—that “you ain’t seen nothing yet.” Following his talk, Mokyr will share additional insights and stories from his remarkable life and career during a Q&A with USF Professor Ludwig Chincarini. This speaker series would not be possible without the generosity, foresight, and sponsorship of Jeff Silk, Naomi Silk, and the Silk family.