Violent Saviours: A New Perspective

People will hear a thought-provoking argument that prosperity cannot be forced, but can only be freely chosen, as William Easterly discusses his book, Violent Saviours, at Resident Music in Brighton on Wednesday, 4 November 2026. This event is an opportunity to learn about the history of Western intervention and the impact of coercion on global development, and to understand why Easterly believes that commerce, rather than conquest, is the key to overcoming poverty.

Easterly's book, which spans nearly four centuries of global history, argues that development needs consent and commerce, rather than coercion. He draws on the work of liberal economic thinkers, including Adam Smith, Milton Friedman, and Amartya Sen, to make his case. The book has been praised by reviewers, including Nobel economist Angus Deaton, who describes it as an innovative and exhilarating read. The Independent Review has called it a remarkable work of scholarship, with a central theme of consent.

William Easterly is a professor of economics at New York University, where he co-directs the Development Research Institute. He has worked on economic development for decades and has written several books on the subject, including The White Man's Burden, which won the 2008 Hayek Prize. His work has been recognised by several prestigious institutions, including the Brookings Institution, where he is a nonresident senior fellow. Easterly's expertise and experience make him a compelling speaker, and his book, Violent Saviours, is a must-read for anyone interested in global development and economics.

The event at Resident Music in Brighton is a chance to hear Easterly discuss his book and his ideas in person. Tickets are with the button beside the article. The venue, Resident Music, is located in Brighton, and the event will take place on Wednesday, 4 November 2026. This is an opportunity to learn from a leading economist and to gain a new perspective on the complex issues surrounding global development and poverty.