Economist Deirdre McCloskey: Freedom, Not the State, Drives National Wealth

Economist and historian Deirdre McCloskey argued that individual freedom, rather than state intervention, is the primary driver of national wealth and economic growth. Speaking at a debate hosted by São Paulo State University (Unesp) to celebrate its 50th anniversary, McCloskey emphasized that creativity and inventiveness stem from individual human ideas, not government policies. She cited China's economic shifts as evidence that even communist regimes recognize the power of freeing people's creative potential. McCloskey criticized state regulations, such as occupational licensing and protectionism, arguing that they oppress the poor by restricting their opportunities to work and access affordable goods. She described her ideological stance as classical liberal, defining it as freedom from coercive domination. Furthermore, she challenged the notion of the state as a family unit, advocating instead for "adultism," where citizens take responsibility for themselves without relying on paternalistic leaders. McCloskey warned that attempts by imperfect governments to correct economic inequalities often stifle growth, a trend she observed in some European nations. The article highlights her view that true prosperity requires adult citizens and leaders who refrain from corruption and coercion.