Paul Pierson
Director and Research Lead, Capitalism & Democracy
A democracy research initiative at the intersection of economics and politics
The Berkeley Economy & Society Initiative (BESI) is a Hewlett Foundation-backed research center at UC Berkeley dedicated to political economy.
Our researchers apply political economic reasoning to analyze and develop solutions to the major political problems of our time, focusing on urgent topics related to climate change, technology, and capitalism and democracy.
Hard questions are our starting point.
Our mission
Informing policy
Through our research, grants, events, and other activities, BESI aims to promote the conditions that give rise to genuine, widespread, and sustainable prosperity. We support rigorous, original, and above all, practical political economy research that informs and influences public policy.
Reframing knowledge
In the spirit of forging collaborations across fields, BESI invites accomplished scholars from a variety of disciplines to share their research with our audiences. We maintain a regular cadence of book talks, lectures, panel discussions, and other events that stimulate productive conversations and improve our collective scholarship.
Advancing the field
We proudly support the Designated Emphasis (DE) in Political Economy at UC Berkeley, which facilitates graduate student participation in vital discussions outside their home disciplines and enables cutting edge research. BESI supports the DE through stipends and grants for research and conferences for students who participate in the program.
Ideas in action
Our work aims to promote the conditions that give rise to genuine, widespread, and sustainable prosperity. Check out the latest BESI news to see how our research, events and other activities are contributing to wider understanding and policymaking on critical issues.
Our leadership
Our research leads are at the forefront of new directions in political economy scholarship. BESI’s staff, affiliated faculty, graduate student researchers, and steering committee help make our activities possible.
Our partners
In the spirit of forging collaboration and fostering dialogue, we maintain close relationships with institutions and programs who share our research priorities.
Contact us.
For questions regarding our events, research, or programs, please complete this form and a member of our team will be in touch.
