Tomáš Sedláček (economist)

Tomáš Sedláček (born January 23, 1977) is a Czech economist, lecturer, and writer. He is known for his heterodox economic thinking, which often incorporates philosophical, religious, and cultural perspectives into economic analysis.

Sedláček received his PhD in economics from Charles University in Prague. He served as an economic advisor to Václav Havel, the former President of the Czech Republic, from 2004 to 2006. He has also worked as a macroeconomist at Československá obchodní banka (ČSOB), one of the largest commercial banks in the Czech Republic.

Sedláček gained international recognition with his book, Economics of Good and Evil: The Quest for Economic Meaning from Gilgamesh to Wall Street (2009, English translation 2011). In this book, he challenges conventional economic assumptions by exploring the historical and philosophical roots of economic thought, drawing on literature, mythology, and religion to provide a broader understanding of economic principles and their impact on society. He argues that economics is not a purely objective science but is deeply influenced by cultural values and ethical considerations.

Sedláček is a popular speaker and commentator on economic issues, known for his engaging and unconventional approach. He has lectured at numerous universities and conferences around the world. His work often focuses on the limitations of traditional economic models, the importance of ethical considerations in economic decision-making, and the need for a more holistic understanding of economic systems.