Business and Economic History Program at PLU

Business and economic history involves the study of business organizations, companies, entrepreneurs, workers, products, and consumers, as well as the economic forces that have shaped culture and society. PLU offers six courses in business and economic history, a regular lecture series, summer research fellowships for students and faculty, and an endowed chair to coordinate activities, teach courses, and conduct original research.

The Business and Economic History Program at PLU is supported by a generous endowment provided by Dale and Jolita Benson in 2004.

Explore resources and materials related to PLU Business and Economic History on this website, including our Blog.

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The Eighteenth Dale E. Benson Lecture

“Einstein’s Blackboard: Struggles with Communication in the History of Innovation”

Michael J. Halvorson, Pacific Lutheran University

How do individuals and organizations share breakthrough ideas with the public? Why is this process crucial for the funding and acceptance of new scientific discoveries, public health initiatives, and commercial products? Professor Halvorson will explore how innovation is framed as a public discourse and why famous innovators sometimes struggle to promote pathbreaking discoveries.

This lecture will be Dr. Halvorson’s final university address as Benson Family Chair. It takes place at 7:00 p.m. on Monday, October 13, 2025, in the Scandinavian Cultural Center in the Anderson / UC building. Please join us!

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Connect

To connect with Professor Michael J. Halvorson, send email to halvormj@plu.edu.

Professor Halvorson welcomes students for academic advising and conversations about business and economic history.

Innovation Studies Program

For information about the popular Innovation Studies minor, see our website dedicated to the program. Innovation Studies is housed in the College of Professional Studies.