Richard Layard

Peter Richard Grenville Layard, Baron Layard FBA, stands as a towering figure in the realm of economics, particularly within the spheres of labor economics and the burgeoning field of happiness studies. A British economist of notable repute, Layard has long been associated with the London School of Economics, where he serves as the programme director of the Centre for Economic Performance. His early career was distinguished by a pivotal role as Senior Research Officer for the Robbins Committee on Higher Education, a position through which he significantly contributed to the transformative expansion of university education in the United Kingdom during the 1960s and 1970s. Layard is perhaps best known for his influential work, "Happiness: Lessons from a New Science," which has garnered critical acclaim and positioned him as a leading voice in the interdisciplinary study of happiness. In this seminal book, he explores the multifaceted nature of human well-being, emphasizing the profound impact of non-economic factors, such as mental health, on overall happiness. This theme resonates through his oeuvre, reflecting a departure from the traditional focus on income as the sole arbiter of societal progress. His scholarly contributions have not only enriched academic discourse but have also catalyzed practical initiatives, most notably the Improving Access to Psychological Therapies (IAPT) programme in England, which stemmed from his groundbreaking Depression Report in 2006. Renowned for his incisive writing style that combines analytical rigor with an engaging narrative, Layard's work transcends mere economic analysis, offering profound insights into the human condition. By championing the significance of mental health within economic frameworks, he has indelibly shaped contemporary discussions on social and economic policies. As co-editor of the World Happiness Report, alongside John F. Helliwell and Jeffrey Sachs, Layard continues to influence global perspectives on happiness and well-being, affirming his enduring legacy as a visionary economist and a compassionate advocate for a more harmonious society.