The Florida State University Policy Pub series concludes its spring semester run with a presentation on economic inequality, particularly as it applies to retired people.

David Rasmussen, Dean Emeritus of the College of Social Sciences and Public Policy and the James H. Gapinski Professor of Economics, will speak on “The Long-Term Consequences of Economic Inequality.” After the brief presentation, the public will have the opportunity to ask questions and engage in dialogue on the topic.

Policy analysts predict rising poverty among future retirees because Social Security cannot sustain its benefits and budgets will be strained by rising medical costs. In fact, Rasmussen argues, the situation is much worse. Trends in economic inequality will further erode the well-being of people turning 65 in the future.

Rasmussen brings his long years of economics expertise to this important issue. His scholarly research and policy evaluation studies have addressed crucial public policy questions, including urban and regional economic development and the economics of housing, discrimination and crime and substance abuse policy.

Rasmussen, who is also affiliated faculty with the Pepper Institute on Aging and Public Policy, has written (or co-authored) five books and published more than 75 articles in leading professional journals.

Policy Pub is sponsored by the FSU College of Social Sciences and Public Policy. Pub sessions take place in the relaxed social atmosphere of Backwoods Bistro at the corner of Tennessee and Gadsden streets. Guests can enjoy food and drink from the menu while listening to and talking about the evening’s topic.

Because these events are very well attended, the public is encouraged to arrive early to get a good parking spot in the restaurant’s lot or surrounding streets and a good table inside.