Americans don’t agree on how their social safety net should work
Two related studies from a USC professor show a country torn between helping people for free and imposing costs on those who need a hand.
Understanding the ongoing U.S.-China trade war
Clayton Dube, director of the USC U.S.-China Institute, explains this latest phase of the trade war and how it might impact American consumers.
From Away to Everlane, why are direct-to-consumer brands the hot retail trend?
USC experts explain what’s behind the sweeping switch from brick-and-mortars to online-only brands.
The Surprising Impact Happiness Has on Health, Relationships and Even the Economy
Researchers across disciplines at USC turn a scientific eye on happiness and its complex connection to our health, relationships and economy.
Are You Bad at Making Decisions? USC Experts Explain Why You’re Not Alone — and How to Get Better
The science of making up your mind is more complicated than you might think.
After Trump’s tariff move, will a trade war follow?
USC experts weigh in on what may come next and what was behind the controversial decision.
What you may not know about the Fed
USC Price Professor Raphael Bostic returns from leave to explain economic policy and its implications for the country.
Is conspicuous consumption dead? How culture is becoming the new commodity to ‘flash’
USC’s Elizabeth Currid-Halkett argues that the well-off have found new ways to show off — in ways that still hurt society.
Does Black Friday still matter? You might be surprised
Thanksgiving openings and a new role for Cyber Monday are just a few ways retailers are adapting to our changing shopping patterns.
To save on prescriptions, buy at independent pharmacies and use coupons
USC experts say cash prices for medication can vary widely in the same neighborhood. But few comparison shop for health care.
Shuttered businesses linked to a rise in property crimes
USC-led study finds that when foot traffic is down, crime goes up — even when the closed businesses were marijuana dispensaries thought to be crime magnets.
Can genetics play a role in education and well-being?
USC researcher outlines a vision of how social science can be incorporated into the work that economists do.
Nobel laureate Sir Angus Deaton named a Presidential Professor
The distinguished economist has been described as an ‘optimistic defender of globalization.’
New journal offers students’ fresh take on economics
The USC Dornsife Economics Department launches the USC Economics Review to spotlight students’ research.
Local leaders consider ways to develop business investment in Los Angeles
USC Senior Vice President Thomas Sayles joins other top-level executives at L.A. Magazine roundtable.
Meet the Real-time Economist: M. Hashem Pesaran
This number-cruncher makes the so-called dismal science accessible.
Career Boot Camp puts economics students through their paces
The program at USC Dornsife offers tailored training in preparation for Fall Career Fair.
USC tax oracle explains Apple’s tricky European situation
Edward Kleinbard breaks down the potentially billion-dollar implications of the European Commission’s ruling against the computer company.
Britain elects to leave the European experiment—now what?
USC Dornsife faculty reflect on Britain’s decision to leave the European Union in a historic vote that triggered financial turmoil.
Summer institute helps first-generation and minority students apply for PhD programs
The institute aims to increase the diversity of the applicant pools for top doctorate programs in political science or other social science fields at USC and across the country.
An investment idea whose time has come for Angola
USC Marshall students win a global competition with a proposal to de-mine Angolan land and turn it into farming property.
As tax day nears, here are nine ways to improve financial know-how
USC economics professor offers advice on how undergraduates (or anyone) can be fiscally savvy.
Environmental progress likely for China, professor predicts
Urban economist is upbeat about the country’s future and fascinated by California’s coastal cities.
Chinese history comes to life through games
USC Dornife students learn about 200 years of economics in a course that incorporates online role playing.