Minority Groups in the Economics Profession

摘要

In 1974, the American Economic Association (AEA) established the Committee on the Status of Minority Groups in the Economics Profession (CSMGEP). CSMGEP grew out of discussions between the AEA Executive Committee and members of the Caucus of Black Economists who were extremely concerned about the very small numbers of minority economists (Spratlen, 1970). "Minority" was defined to include three underrepresented groups in the profession—blacks, Hispanics and Native Americans. Then, as now, there were at least two reasons for this concern. First, sound economic analysis benefits from a broader range of perspectives and experiences in the profession. Second, a more diverse faculty in institutions of higher education will provide role models for students and faculty of all races and will help to counter biased perceptions. In its 25-year history, CSMGEP has focused on identifying, training and supporting promising minorities who are interested in pursuing economics Ph.D.'s and in becoming professional economists. There is some evidence that these activities have been associated with an increase in minority economists—but the absolute numbers remain small.