Silvaplana Academic Political Economy Group
Advancing Critical Research in Political Economy Since 1989
Heinrich Ursprung
Founder
Arye Hillman
Founder
Peter Bernholz
Founding patron
The Silvaplana Academic Political Economy Group is a non-profit association dedicated to fostering research in political economy.
Our scope transcends the conventional boundaries between economics and politics, encompassing the broader study of social organization and human behavior. As such, our approach is grounded in a realistic view of political motives: ideology, personal incentives, and self-interest.
Our goal is to promote critical academic inquiry free from policy advocacy, encouraging new ideas and rigorous debate. We explicitly do not engage in policy advisory activities intended to inform governmental decision-making.
Annual Workshop on Political Economy
Key features of the workshop include:
Exclusive focus on unpublished research
The workshop is dedicated to the presentation of work-in-progress. Papers that have already been submitted for publication are not eligible.
Single-session format
There are no parallel tracks. All participants attend the same sessions, ensuring that each paper receives feedback from the full group.
Extended discussion time
Unlike conventional conferences, ample time is allocated for scholarly critique and in-depth discussion.
Afternoon excursions
Following the academic sessions, participants engage in organized hikes or walks in the surrounding alpine region, providing opportunities for informal dialogue and collaborative exchange.
Evening presentations
Optional post-dinner sessions offer a more accessible format, suitable for a broader audience, including accompanying guests.