Lessons for the Economy from the Stage

Abstract

The award-winning opera singer asks, why can’t the world mimic the stage? Her profession, begun 450 years ago by societies that valued culture and its influence on humanity, depicts women as strong, capable leaders who are applauded for being loud and audacious—and pays women equally or higher than men. As scholars explore the intricacies of the modern woman’s role in our economy, the author suggests the theater has a lot to teach society and should be used as a guide. The mistakes of dramatic characters from the stage amplify the exigency of addressing injustice and inequality—and can inspire empathy and progress toward more inclusive policy choices.

Keywords: memoir, inequality, interdisciplinary

JEL Classification: B54, A12, A13