Abstract

John Dunlop was an extraordinary labour economist, Professor and Dean of the Faculty at Harvard University, Secretary of Labor of the United States, and mentor to students and practitioners in the world of labour. He was extraordinary because he was more than an economist and because he was driven by a moral vision of what economists and academics should do to make the world better. Labour economists and policymakers paid close attention to Dunlop’s thoughts because he combined academic research with unparalleled practical experience in solving problems and building institutions. His academic writings, which include several classic articles as well as major books, reflect Dunlop’s participation in events and direct observations of social behaviour.