At a time when national debates over trade, regulation, and economic systems are intensifying, Metropolitan State University of Denver is hosting Steve Forbes, a prominent advocate for free-market principles, for a campus discussion on policy and prosperity. n nForbes, who serves as chairman and editor-in-chief of Forbes Magazine, will deliver a talk as part of the Exploring Economic Freedom Lecture Series, organized by the Department of Economics in collaboration with the Young America’s Foundation. The event reflects MSU Denver’s effort to foster open dialogue on key societal and economic challenges. n n“Our aim is to bring external voices onto campus to engage in rigorous conversations about issues that matter,” said Professor Alexandre Padilla, Ph.D., head of the Economics Department. “This is an opportunity to reflect with students and local professionals on whether current economic trajectories are sustainable or beneficial.” n nTimely economic debates n nEconomic policy has been a dominant theme in recent media coverage. Google searches for the term ‘tariffs’ surged after the 2024 election, as citizens sought to understand how evolving trade policies might influence household budgets and employment. Questions surrounding immigration rules and regulatory burdens are especially relevant for students and job seekers entering an unpredictable labor environment. n nRELATED: ‘Tariffs aren’t the answer’ n nForbes, who previously campaigned for the Republican presidential nomination advocating a flat tax system, has long promoted policies aimed at boosting innovation and economic opportunity. His book “How Capitalism Will Save Us” emphasizes that market-driven solutions, rather than government intervention, are the foundation of long-term prosperity. Attendees will receive a complimentary copy of the publication. n n“Mr. Forbes will help clarify the importance of reducing bureaucratic oversight, encouraging innovation, and how these factors contribute to national well-being,” Padilla explained. “It’s valuable for students to hear directly from a business leader’s perspective.” n nEncouraging intellectual exchange n nThe lecture is part of MSU Denver’s broader Exploring Economic Freedom Project, which examines how political and economic liberties support entrepreneurship, development, and societal stability. n n“We’re committed to civil discourse,” Padilla added. “This forum allows for thoughtful exploration of major ideas. It’s not about persuasion — it’s about equipping individuals with information so they can form their own conclusions.”
— News Original —nSteve Forbes to visit MSU Denver for talk on economics and policynAt a time when debates over capitalism, trade and regulation dominate headlines, Metropolitan State University of Denver students and community members will have the chance to hear directly from one of America’s most recognized voices on free enterprise. n nSteve Forbes, chairman and editor-in-chief of Forbes Magazine, will speak on campus as part of the Exploring Economic Freedom Lecture Series, hosted by the Department of Economics in partnership with the Young America’s Foundation. The event underscores MSU Denver’s commitment to bringing diverse perspectives into dialogue on pressing issues that affect our daily lives. n n“Our goal is to bring in people from outside campus to have a rigorous conversation on issues people care about,” said Professor Alexandre Padilla, Ph.D., chair of the Department of Economics. “This is about spending time with students and the business community, asking whether the path we’re on is the right one.” n nBig ideas, timely topics n nEconomic policy has dominated the news in recent months. Searches for the word tariffs spiked dramatically on Google after the 2024 election, as Americans tried to understand how shifting trade rules might affect their wallets and workplaces. The questions at stake, such as those surrounding immigration and business regulation, are deeply relevant to students and jobseekers preparing to enter a volatile labor market. n nRELATED: ‘Tariffs aren’t the answer’ n nForbes, who twice ran for the Republican nomination for president on a platform centered on a flat income tax, has spent decades advocating for policies that he believes foster innovation and opportunity. His book “How Capitalism Will Save Us” argues that free markets, not government control, drive prosperity. Students attending will have the chance to receive a free copy of Forbes’ book. n n“Mr. Forbes will help explain why it matters to have less government regulation, more innovation, and how it benefits America,” Padilla said. “It’s important to show the everyday life and perspective of a businessman.” n nA forum for open inquiry n nThe lecture is part of MSU Denver’s Exploring Economic Freedom Project, an initiative designed to investigate how economic and political freedom promote entrepreneurship, economic development, prosperity and peace. n n“We want to promote civil discourse,” Padilla said. “This is a place where you can have thoughtful discussion on big ideas. It’s not about changing your opinion — it’s about finding your own answer from a menu of information.”