Postgraduate Certificate in Behavioral Economics for Urban Resilience
Published on June 25, 2025
About this Podcast
HOST: Welcome to our podcast, today I'm thrilled to be speaking with Dr. Jane Smith, an expert in behavioral economics and the lead instructor for the Postgraduate Certificate in Behavioral Economics for Urban Resilience. Dr. Smith, can you tell us a bit about this course and what inspired you to create it? GUEST: Thanks for having me! This course is designed to help professionals understand the crucial role human behavior plays in urban planning and policy. I've seen firsthand how applying behavioral insights can significantly improve urban outcomes, making cities more sustainable and resilient. HOST: That's fascinating. Can you share any current trends in behavioral economics as it relates to urban resilience? GUEST: Absolutely. One trend is the increasing recognition of the importance of nudging – gentle persuasion techniques that steer people towards better decisions without limiting their freedom of choice. Nudging can be used to promote pro-environmental behavior, like reducing waste or increasing public transport use. HOST: I see. And what challenges have you encountered when teaching this subject or working in this field? GUEST: A significant challenge is overcoming the perception that behavioral economics is just about manipulation. In reality, it's about understanding how people make decisions and finding ways to help them make better ones. That's why our course emphasizes ethical considerations and evidence-based practices. HOST: That's a great point. Looking toward the future, where do you see this area of study heading? GUEST: I believe we'll continue to see more interdisciplinary collaboration, as behavioral economics becomes increasingly integrated into fields like urban planning, public health, and environmental policy. The potential applications are vast, and we're only just beginning to scratch the surface. HOST: Dr. Smith, thank you for sharing your insights and expertise with us today. If you're interested in learning more about the Postgraduate Certificate in Behavioral Economics for Urban Resilience, visit our website for details on how to apply. Until next time, stay curious!
