Lecture by Irene Nygårdsvik
Economy, Labor, and Dialogue
Putting People at the Centre
27.11.2025 at 19 PM
Humanistic economist and dialogue explorer Irene Nygårdsvik will give her second of three talks at Kunsthall 3,14, this time reflecting on work, value, and collective responsibility in contemporary society. Nygårdsvik explores how economic systems shape human relations and notions of worth.
In this thought-provoking lecture, economist Irene Nygårdsvik explores how we might reshape our understanding of the economy by placing human beings—rather than markets or profits—at the heart of economic thinking.
Irene Nygårsvik introduces the concept of humanistic economics, an emerging approach that emphasizes dignity, generosity, sustainability, and meaningful relationships over efficiency, competition, and endless growth.
At a time when global challenges—from inequality to climate crisis—demand new ways of thinking, Nygårdsvik presents a compelling case for an economy rooted in ethics, care, and creativity. Drawing on her own research and years of experience as a speaker and writer, she reflects on how economic systems shape not only our material world, but also our social fabric, sense of self, and ability to live well together.
The lecture is presented in dialogue with he themes raised in Jingyi Wang’s Voice to Voice and Katarina Jazbec’s You Can’t Automate Me, expanding the conversation about what labor means — emotionally, socially, and politically. The interplay between art and economics invites us to reflect on the values embedded in our daily lives and to imagine new economic models that nourish both people and planet.
Irene Nygårdsvik holds a degree in economics from the Norwegian School of Economics (NHH) and has developed the concept of an economy of generosity and dignity—a vision of economic life where creativity is not a commodity, but a vital force. She advocates for economic practices that are socially inclusive, environmentally responsible, and grounded in dialogue and relational understanding.
Whether you are an artist, economist, policymaker, worker or a student, or simply curious about the future of our society, this lecture offers fresh perspectives and invites you into a broader conversation about what kind of economy we want—and need—to create.