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    Competition Overview

    Marshall Economic Essay Competition

    The Marshall Economic Essay Competition is an annual global competition organized by the Marshall Society, the Economics Society of the University of Cambridge. Named after Alfred Marshall, a founder of modern economics, this prestigious competition invites high school students worldwide to explore complex and pressing economic issues. The contest emphasizes critical thinking, analytical reasoning, and creativity in addressing contemporary economic challenges, offering participants a unique opportunity to engage with cutting-edge topics in economics.

    Eligibility

    • Open to students worldwide

    • Age Requirement: Participants must be under 18 years of age at the time of submission.

    Submission Deadline
    • August

    Official Website

    Competition Topic Example 2024

    Each category offers a set of questions each year. 

    Question 1

    In the face of disinflation, policymakers are hesitant to reduce interest rates. Is this in line with economic theory?

    Question 4

    To what extent is a merger between two big firms beneficial to consumers?

    Question 7

    Has the field of Economics become too mathematical? Is this a problem?

    Question 2

    What are the causes and consequences of low fertility rates in advanced economies? How can we combat them?

    Question 5

    “In an efficient market, at any point in time, the actual price of a security will be a good estimate of its intrinsic value.” – Eugene Fama. To what extent does this apply today?

    Question 3

    Is the attention economy necessarily harmful?

    Question 6

    Why did Britain choose to return to the $4.86 gold standard rate in 1925? Was this the right decision?

    Requirements

    Word Limit

    • maximum 1,250 words

    File Format

    • must be submitted in PDF format.

    • Name your file
      “[your name] Q[question number].pdf” (e.g., “John Doe Q1.pdf”).

    • Ensure the file size is no larger than 10 MB.

    Submission

    • Use the Google Form provided for submission.

    • Double-check all details before submitting. 

    Contact

    • If there are any issues, contact jg2107@cam.ac.uk at least 48 hours before the deadline.

    Prizes

    First Place
    £100
    Finalists
    £50
    Commendation

    No monetary prize, awarded to excellent submissions shortlisted for finalist.

    Ready to find your voice?

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