John Maynard Keynes: 'If economists could manage to get themselves thought of as humble, competent people on a level with dentists, that would be splendid.'

If economists could manage to get themselves thought of as humble, competent people on a level with dentists, that would be splendid.

In the realm of economics, John Maynard Keynes is a name that stands out. Known for his groundbreaking contributions to macroeconomics, Keynes's quote, "If economists could manage to get themselves thought of as humble, competent people on a level with dentists, that would be splendid," carries a profound message. At its core, the quote emphasizes the need for economists to approach their work with humility and competence, rather than being regarded as lofty figures with mysterious doctrines. However, let us embark on a philosophical journey by introducing the concept of existentialism, exploring its connection to Keynes's quote, and delving into the unexpected parallels between economists and existentialists.Keynes's quote resonates with a straightforward meaning: economists should strive to be perceived as down-to-earth professionals, capable of providing valuable insights into the intricacies of the economy. By comparing themselves to dentists, who are widely respected and seen as knowledgeable individuals, Keynes suggests that economists should possess a similar level of competence and humility. This humble approach would enable economists to connect with the general public, make their ideas more accessible, and ultimately contribute to the betterment of society.Now, let us dive into the unexpected connection between economists and existentialists. Existentialism, a philosophical movement popularized in the 20th century, centered around themes of individual freedom, responsibility, and the significance of personal choice. While seemingly unrelated to the world of economics, existentialism shares a common thread with Keynes's quote: the call for humility and competence.Existentialists, much like Keynes, recognize the importance of humility in navigating the complexities of life. In a world filled with uncertainty, existentialists advocate for acknowledging our limitations and embracing the inherent complexities of existence. They urge individuals to confront the reality of their finite knowledge and construct meaning from within. In a similar vein, Keynes's plea for economists to be humble resonates with the existentialist notion of embracing our own limitations and recognizing that our understanding of the economy is merely an approximation of its true intricacies.Furthermore, competence is a shared trait between economists and existentialists. Economists, as experts in their field, must possess the competence to analyze complex data, predict market trends, and propose viable economic policies. Similarly, existentialists argue that individuals must strive for competence in navigating the unpredictable and ambiguous nature of existence. Through self-reflection and personal growth, existentialists seek to develop the skills needed to make authentic choices and lead fulfilling lives.While economists and existentialists approach their respective domains from different angles, the call for humility and competence serves as a unifying force. Both disciplines recognize the importance of embracing limitations, valuing expertise, and cultivating a deep understanding of their subjects. By intertwining these ideas, we can move towards a more holistic and multidimensional approach to understanding the complexities of both economics and human existence.In conclusion, John Maynard Keynes's quote urging economists to be humble and competent, akin to dentists, carries a straightforward and practical message. However, delving into the unexpected parallels between economists and existentialists brings forth a deeper understanding of the quote's significance. Both disciplines emphasize the importance of humility in acknowledging our limitations and competence in navigating complexity. By adopting a nuanced perspective that combines these ideas, we can pave the way for greater understanding, collaboration, and progress in both economics and existential philosophy.