Ida Greaves: A Pioneer Development Economist

Ida Greaves, born in Barbados in 1907, is a pioneering female economist who made significant contributions to early development economics. This biography explores her early life, education, and career, including her work as an economic adviser to the Colonial Office and the United Nations. It sheds light on her study of colonial monetary systems and their impact on poor countries, highlighting issues of class, race, gender, and inequality that remain relevant today.

Format: Hardback
Length: 140 pages
Publication date: 25 October 2023
Publisher: Taylor & Francis Ltd

Ida Greaves, born in Barbados in 1907, is a notable figure in the field of early development economics, yet her voice remains largely overlooked in the academic discourse. This biography, the first dedicated to her life, aims to capture her career and the historical context in which she operated before the passage of time renders her story obsolete.

Greaves' early years were spent in Barbados, where she developed a strong foundation in education. She attended boarding school in England, where she honed her academic skills and acquired a deep appreciation for the arts. After completing her secondary education, she enrolled at McGill University in Canada, where she pursued a rigorous academic path focused on human behavior under the influence of evolving social and political histories. During her time at McGill, Greaves published an early groundbreaking study on black migrants into Canada, shedding light on their experiences and challenges in a new land.

After completing her studies at McGill, Greaves continued her academic journey by pursuing research at prestigious institutions in the United States and the United Kingdom. She spent time at Harvard University, Columbia University, and the London School of Economics, where she delved into various aspects of economics and contributed to the field with her innovative ideas and research.

One of the significant chapters in Greaves' biography covers her career as an economic adviser to the Colonial Office in London. During this period, she worked closely with Arthur Lewis, a renowned economist and former United Nations Secretary-General. Greaves played a pivotal role in shaping economic policies and strategies during a critical time in late colonial history. Her insights and contributions to the development of economic theory and practice were widely recognized and respected.

In addition to her work at the Colonial Office, Greaves also contributed to the establishment and functioning of the United Nations in New York. Her expertise in economics and her understanding of international relations made her a valuable asset to the organization. She published her research in top journals and made significant contributions to the study of colonial monetary systems and their impact on developing countries.

Greaves' life and career offer valuable insights into the personalities and institutions of a bygone era. Her work on class and race, gender and inequality, poverty and unemployment, are as relevant today as they were during her lifetime. Her legacy continues to inspire and influence scholars and policymakers seeking to address these pressing social and economic challenges.

This accessible biography provides a comprehensive account of Ida Greaves' life and work. It sheds light on her early years in Barbados, her academic journey, and her contributions to economics and international relations. The book is written in a clear and engaging style, making it accessible to a wide audience, including students, scholars, and general readers interested in history and economics.

In conclusion, Ida Greaves' biography is a valuable addition to the literature on early development economics and women's studies. It offers a fresh perspective on a remarkable woman who played a significant role in shaping the economic and political landscape of her time. By highlighting her achievements and challenges, the book encourages us to reflect on the past and learn from its lessons to build a more inclusive and equitable future.

Weight: 450g
Dimension: 229 x 152 (mm)
ISBN-13: 9781032494395