When Economics Meets Entomology

A University of Michigan professor’s CNN interview was interrupted when an insect flew into his mouth during live television. Justin Wolfers struggled to clear his throat while maintaining composure, but the incident highlights a more serious issue: the disconnect between economists and their audience.

The interview itself focused on labor market data, with Wolfers describing the US economy as “not earning an A+ in anyone’s book.” However, his sudden coughing fit and struggle to speak served as a stark reminder of the difficulties economists face when trying to convey nuanced ideas to non-experts. CNN anchor Omar Jimenez attempted to keep the segment moving by asking Wolfers about the Federal Reserve’s interest rate policy, but this only added to the awkwardness.

Wolfers’ response, which included a joke about Australians eating flies and a clever metaphor linking his predicament to the Fed’s communication style, showcased his ability to think on his feet. This ability underscores the challenge of balancing technical expertise with audience engagement. As an economist, Wolfers is accustomed to dealing with complex data and policy implications, but in this moment, he was forced to adapt to a very different kind of uncertainty.

The aftermath of the incident has been met with praise for Wolfers’ professionalism and humor. However, it also highlights the need for economists to be more mindful of their communication style. In an era where economic data is increasingly accessible to non-experts, it’s essential that economists can convey complex ideas in a clear and engaging manner.

Wolfers’ post-interview statement on social media included a tongue-in-cheek remark about no longer being a vegetarian due to the incident. This lighthearted comment has been widely shared, but it’s also worth considering what this incident reveals about the economics profession as a whole. The disconnect between economists and their audience is not new, but incidents like this one serve as a reminder that there’s still much work to be done.

Wolfers’ experience demonstrates that even well-prepared economists can struggle to communicate in high-pressure situations. As the field continues to grapple with issues of communication and engagement, incidents like this one serve as a reminder that unexpected moments can have a profound impact on our understanding of economics and its role in society.