معرفی
Sarah Estelle is a Professor of Economics at Hope College, where she has established herself as a prominent scholar at the intersection of economics, public policy, and Christian thought. Her work extends the principles of economics to diverse human experiences and behaviors, with particular focus on criminal justice reform, higher education investments, adolescent behavior, and parental investments in children.
Education:
- Ph.D. in Economics, University of Virginia (2008)
- B.A. in Economics, Hillsdale College (2000)
Professor Estelle's research bridges traditional economic analysis with Christian theological perspectives, particularly exploring F.A. Hayek's contributions to knowledge, cultural evolution, and spontaneous order. She has developed a unique scholarly niche examining how economic principles apply to Christian virtues, especially the economics of love. Her work spans applied microeconomics, labor economics, and public policy, with publications addressing criminal justice reform, adolescent sexual behavior, maternal education impacts, and religious liberty measurement.
Her recent publications demonstrate a consistent focus on applying economic reasoning to social issues through both secular and faith-based lenses. Estelle has developed sophisticated methodologies for measuring religious liberty across states, analyzed workforce development policies, examined sentencing guidelines' impact on recidivism, and investigated how maternal communication affects adolescent sexual behavior. Her scholarly approach combines rigorous economic analysis with philosophical and theological reflection.
Professor Estelle founded and directs Hope College's Markets & Morality student organization, which has been active for over a decade (celebrating its tenth year in 2022-23). This organization explores economic issues through a Christian lens, bringing speakers and film screenings to campus to enrich the community's understanding of markets. She has presented her work at numerous academic conferences including the American Economic Association meetings, Southern Economic Association Meetings, and various Christian academic venues.
Beyond academia, Estelle—a native of Traverse City, Michigan—enjoys reading, gardening, baking, and walking. She lives in Holland with her husband Aaron, who serves as Assistant to the Director of Markets & Morality. The couple shares a passion for travel, seeking diverse cultural experiences and good food both near and far.
