Economists under Pressure and the Political Limits to Economics

GREDEG is a joint research unit supported by the CNRS and Université Côte d’Azur. What sets this laboratory apart is its unique approach of bringing together the fields of economics, law, management, and sociology to explore the worlds of innovation and knowledge. Their expertise is particularly relevant for this conference as they often bridge the gap between modern economic analysis and the history of economic thought, favoring a multidisciplinary approach that keeps the conversation fresh and well-rounded.

The Graduate School of Economics and Management (EUR ELMI) serves as an academic hub for economics and management, bringing together researchers and scholars from Université Côte d’Azur and SKEMA Business School. A core part of their mission is ensuring that this field remains central to the curriculum; members of the group are responsible for teaching the history of economic thought across all levels, from the undergraduate degrees to the doctoral school (DESPEG), bridging the gap between historical research and modern economic education.

Université Côte d'Azur is one of France’s top 10 research-intensive universities, and coordinates the higher education and research stakeholders of the French Riviera to offer a high level of training, research, and innovation. It serves as the institutional umbrella for our local partners, bridging the gap between high-level education and cutting-edge research. Concerning economics, the university’s commitment to these two missions is reflected in its key components: the Graduate School of Economics and Management, which drives the academic and doctoral programs in economics and management, and GREDEG, the joint research unit with the CNRS that provides the scientific foundation for our discussions.

HES (History of Economics Society) has come a long way since its first meeting in 1974. What started as a small group of scholars has grown into a vibrant international community dedicated to exploring the history of economics and intellectual history. The society is the driving force behind the Journal of the History of Economic Thought (JHET)—which stands as the prestigious North American leading journal in the field. Beyond publishing, HES is deeply committed to supporting the field through its annual prizes for best dissertations, articles, and books, as well as honoring "Distinguished Fellows" who have shaped the discipline.

ESHET (European Society for the History of Economic Thought) is all about bringing together scholars from across Europe—and beyond—to keep the history of economic ideas alive and kicking. They embrace the different languages and traditions that make European thought so rich, fostering a real sense of community through their conferences and summer schools. The society is also behind EJHET, one of the top journals in the field, and they make a point of supporting great research through their annual awards and grants. It’s this mix of high-level scholarship and a welcoming network that makes them a cornerstone of our event.

The CNRS (National Centre for Scientific Research) isn’t just a global powerhouse of research; it’s a vital part of our daily academic
life here in Nice. We’re especially proud to have two of our H2P2S researchers as official members of the CNRS, acting as a direct bridge between national excellence and our local passion for the history of economic ideas. More than just a prestigious name, the CNRS provides the logistical backbone and infrastructure that truly make this conference possible. As a key player in our IDEX (Initiative d'Excellence) framework at Université Côte d’Azur, they help us keep the bar high while ensuring everything runs smoothly behind the scenes. We couldn’t ask for a more solid (or supportive) partner to bring this event to life!

Let’s be honest: hosting a world-class conference is one thing, but doing it in Nice is a whole different story! The Ville de Nice has been a fantastic partner, providing, through the Comité Doyen Jean Lépine, not only the essential funding to make this event a reality but also the invaluable expertise of their Convention Bureau (Office du Tourisme). In a time where "culture" and "humanities" sometimes feel like endangered species—especially when budget scissors start snipping away at the very foundations of university research—the City’s support is more than just logistical; it’s a statement. By investing in our HES/ESHET meeting, Nice reminds us that even when the political winds get a bit... chilly for social sciences, the Mediterranean sun still shines bright on critical thought and historical inquiry. We are thrilled to have such a bold ally in showing the world that history and ideas are, and always will be, "essentiels"