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Best Practices for Diversifying Economic Quality

This site presents best practices for economists in four areas of professional conduct. Click through the links to find practical suggestions for implementation and supporting research evidence.

Background and Motivation

Conducting Research


1. Organize conferences, seminars, and visitor programs that are inclusive. 
Each conference, panel, seminar series, or other forum should feature a diverse group of economists.

2. Ensure that the conferences and seminar discussions you host are constructive.
Setting and enforcing rules of responsible behavior by attendees at conference and seminar presentations can increase the quality of the intellectual exchange. 

3. Provide equitable access to journals.  
Ensuring that boards of editors at journals are diverse, that high standards of ethical and equitable behavior are set, and that referees adhere to them may help reduce biases in the editorial process. 

4. Read and cite diversely; think inclusively.
Citing a diverse set of authors on syllabi and bibliographies and finding value in alternative research approaches can improve your research and the discipline.

5. Share research opportunities broadly. 
Seeking diversity when identifying research assistants and potential collaborators can help counter existing biases.

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Serving as Colleagues


1. Discuss and enforce a code of conduct.
Establishing rules for unbiased conduct facilitates important conversations, sets clear expectations, and creates a more productive and inclusive environment. 

2. Be an effective bystander. 
Signaling a willingness to listen and to speak up when you observe inappropriate behavior helps set norms for fair conduct.

3. Be a good mentor.
Improving your mentoring skills encourages those around you to do the same. A more supportive environment attracts better colleagues and creates productive work relationships. 

4. Create room for your colleagues' work-life choices. 
Supporting one another’s need for fulfilling professional and personal lives improves mental health and productivity.

5. Meet your colleagues where they are.
Valuing differences helps individuals, and the profession, thrive. There is no set profile of what an economist should look like, and there is no rulebook for what constitutes economics research.

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