Brief History 

The origins of Hug an Economist Day are playful and symbolic, emerging as a way to acknowledge the hard work and often unrecognized role of economists in society. While the exact date and creator of the holiday remain unclear, it has gained popularity among academic and professional communities as a fun way to celebrate the field of economics. Economists play a crucial role in shaping global and local policies, analyzing trends, and offering guidance on everything from inflation and unemployment to environmental sustainability. Hug an Economist Day highlights the personal side of these analytical thinkers and provides an opportunity to bridge the gap between their work and the general public’s understanding of it.

How It's Celebrated

Hug an Economist Day is celebrated with humor and warmth. Many people take the opportunity to thank economists in their lives—whether professors, coworkers, or public figures—by offering a hug, handshake, or simply a heartfelt message. Academic institutions and economics departments might host informal gatherings or discussions to spotlight the achievements of their economists. On social media, hashtags like #HugAnEconomistDay are used to share memes, stories, and shout-outs to favorite economists or economic concepts. For those less inclined to give an actual hug, sharing a book, article, or podcast related to economics can be a thoughtful way to show appreciation.

Hug an Economist Day

Interesting Facts

• Economics is often referred to as the "dismal science," a term coined by Scottish historian Thomas Carlyle.
• Nobel Prizes in Economics have been awarded since 1969, recognizing significant contributions to the field.
• The concept of "opportunity cost," a cornerstone of economics, was first introduced by Austrian economist Friedrich von Wieser.
• Behavioral economics, blending psychology and economics, has transformed how we understand human decision-making.
• Famous economists like Adam Smith, John Maynard Keynes, and Milton Friedman have significantly influenced modern economic thought.