Gerard Debreu

Date of Birth: July 4, 1921

Zodiac Sign: Cancer

Date of Death: December 31, 2004

Biography

Gérard Debreu was a French-American economist and mathematician renowned for his pioneering work in general equilibrium theory, for which he was awarded the Nobel Memorial Prize in Economic Sciences in 1983. Born in Calais, France, Debreu’s early education was interrupted by World War II, but he later resumed his studies at the University of Paris, where he earned his degree in mathematics in 1946. He subsequently moved to the United States in 1948, where he began his illustrious career. Debreu joined the University of California, Berkeley faculty in 1962, where he made significant contributions to economic theory and mathematical economics. His seminal book, “Theory of Value: An Axiomatic Analysis of Economic Equilibrium,” published in 1959, remains a cornerstone in economic literature. Debreu’s work is characterized by its rigorous mathematical approach to economic problems, fundamentally changing the way economists think about market behaviors and equilibria.

5 Interesting Facts about Gerard Debreu

1. Gérard Debreu was awarded the Nobel Memorial Prize in Economic Sciences in 1983 for his work in general equilibrium theory.

2. He became a naturalized citizen of the United States in 1975.

3. Debreu was a member of the Econometric Society and served as its president in 1971.

4. His book “Theory of Value” is considered one of the most important works in modern economic theory.

5. Debreu was also awarded the French Legion of Honor in 1976.

5 Most Interesting Quotes from Gerard Debreu

1. “The Theory of Value is an axiomatic analysis of economic equilibrium.”

2. “The analysis of competitive equilibrium has been one of the most important domains of economic theory.”

3. “Mathematics is a tool that helps to understand the complexities of economics.”

4. “The elegance of abstract models is their generality and simplicity.”

5. “Economic theory should be based on rigorous mathematical foundations.”

Highest Net Worth Achieved

Gérard Debreu’s highest net worth is not publicly documented, but as an esteemed professor and Nobel laureate, he earned significant academic and professional recognition.