Academic Tribute To Professor Anthony Philip Thirlwall (1941–2023)

On 8 November 2023, the academic community lost one of its most distinguished voices in development economics: Professor Anthony Philip Thirlwall. His passing marked the end of a remarkable career that spanned decades and left an indelible imprint on the study of economic growth, development, and balance-of-payments theory.

Professor Thirlwall was widely recognized as one of the leading development economists of his generation. His scholarship combined theoretical rigor with practical relevance, offering insights that continue to shape policy debates and academic discourse. Perhaps most enduring is his formulation of Thirlwall’s Law, which demonstrated the centrality of the balance-of-payments constraint in determining long-run growth. This contribution remains a cornerstone in development economics, influencing both research and policy institutions worldwide.

Equally influential was his textbook, Growth and Development: With Special Reference to Developing Economies (later retitled Economics of Development: Theory and Evidence). This work became a reference book for generations of students, admired for its clarity, accessibility, and comprehensive treatment of development theory. For many, it was the essential starting point for understanding the complexities of economic growth in developing contexts.

On a personal note, I had the privilege of being supervised by Professor Thirlwall during my PhD study at the University of Kent (2005-2009). His mentorship was transformative. He emphasized the importance of simple and lucid writing and the use of simple econometrics as tools to make economic analysis both rigorous and accessible. These lessons continue to shape my own scholarship and teaching, and they remain among the most valuable gifts he imparted to me.

Beyond his publications, Professor Thirlwall’s academic leadership was evident in his long tenure at the University of Kent, where he served as Professor of Applied Economics. He organized the Keynes Seminars, edited influential volumes, and contributed to the advancement of economics through his service to professional associations. His intellectual generosity and commitment to nurturing young scholars ensured that his influence extended far beyond his own research.

Professor Thirlwall’s legacy is one of rigor, clarity, and generosity of spirit. He will be remembered not only for his groundbreaking contributions to development economics but also for the profound impact he had on his students and colleagues. His passing is a great loss to the discipline, but his ideas and teachings will continue to inspire future generations.

Dr. Ebere Uneze is a former Executive Director of Asset Management Corporation of Nigeria ‎(AMCON)