Paul Samuelson, 1915–2009

Paul Samuelson, who died on 13 December at the age of 94, was one of the greatest economists who ever lived. A generation of economics students had their first exposure to the subject through his textbook, Economics, first published in 1948 and now in 19th edition. His research covered many topics in economics and he brought a rigour to economic analysis that has had a profound influence on the development of the subject.

Tributes have flowed in from around the world and many obituaries have been written. The following is a selection that give you a feel for the huge contribution he made to the subject.

Thinking about his achievements, try answering the question below.

Nobel Prize-winning economist advised several U.S. presidents Washington Post, Patricia Sullivan (14/12/09)
‘Samuelson was the pre-eminent economist of our times’ Business Standard (India), Amartya Sen (19/12/09)
Across the Spectrum, Economists Mourn Paul Samuelson the Atlantic Wire, Max Fisher (14/12/09)
Pioneer who turned economics into a science Financial Times, Stephanie Flanders (14/12/09)
Paul Samuelson, RIP The Hindu Business Line, T.C.A. Srinivasa-Raghavan (14/12/09)
Paul Samuelson Telegraph (14/12/09)
Paul Samuelson The Economist (17/12/09)

Question

What makes a great economist?