Modern Agricultural and Resource Economics and Policy

This book pays homage to Gordon Rausser's influential career while exploring significant advancements in agricultural and resource economics. Modern Agricultural and Resource Economics and Policy highlights key developments and contributions in the field.

This volume is a tribute to Gordon Rausser, a distinguished figure in natural resource economics, who played a pivotal role in transforming the Agriculture and Resource Economics department at UC Berkeley. Under his leadership, the department evolved from a traditional agricultural economics focus to a more comprehensive resource economics approach, addressing critical issues such as agriculture, food security, environmental economics, and energy policy. The book not only honors Rausser's contributions but also provides a critical overview of the emerging literature in the field, highlighting the breadth of topics he influenced.

Modern Agricultural and Resource Economics and Policy is structured in two main parts. The first part delves into the lessons learned from Rausser's career, emphasizing his leadership qualities, his ability to blend teaching with entrepreneurship, and his significant impact on the global food system. The second part focuses on key developments in the field of resource economics that Rausser contributed to, showcasing how his work intersects with contemporary issues. The chapters feature insights from current leaders in economics, covering diverse areas such as public policy, public finance, econometrics, and water resource management.

This book serves as both a valuable reference and a celebration of a pivotal figure in agricultural and resource economics. It is particularly beneficial for practitioners and scholars who are familiar with Gordon Rausser's legacy and the ongoing evolution of the field. By compiling various perspectives and advancements, the volume emphasizes the importance of interdisciplinary approaches to addressing complex economic challenges.