The award is named after Professor Emeritus Frank Stilwell, a leading authority on political economy. “Emeritus Professor Frank Stilwell is a giant in the field, an excellent advisor and critic, and a generous colleague who is particularly committed to enhancing the skills and experience of early-stage academics. I would like to pay tribute to him. I am very proud to have received this award.”
Inspiration and research focus
Cooper’s interest in political economy is driven by a desire to promote a more equitable world, drawing inspiration from figures such as Nina Simone, Susan Sontag, Dr. Charles Perkins, Dr. Galawi Yunupingu, and Nelson Mandela. Cooper recognized that understanding material conditions through economic, labor, and power relations was critical to engaging with them more broadly. “Political economy was the perfect pluralistic intersection, combining several related disciplines to critique and reformulate economic thinking,” Cooper explains.
By focusing on innovative historical theory and developing new concepts for contemporary economic challenges, Cooper seeks to address and improve current economic problems. His work challenges mainstream economics and aims to provide practical solutions to persistent and emerging problems.
Cooper’s research includes a doctoral dissertation titled “Neoliberalism, Neofeudalism, or a New Era?” A Survey of the Gig Asset Economy” and a journal article “Capital as Authority: Contemporary Power Theory.” This manuscript considers new forms of inequality and at the same time offers an innovative theory of capital relations. The paper won Mr. Cooper recognition and he was invited to present this year at the Heterarchical Economics Society conference in Bristol, UK, and at the Financial and Social Network in Sheffield.
Overcoming challenges and future aspirations
Despite personal and research challenges, Cooper remains committed to his academic goals. Although there are notable hurdles in accessing primary sources and developing robust methodologies, Cooper’s resilience is unwavering. Driven by his passion for teaching and research, Cooper aspires to become a professor.
Impact of award and acknowledgment
Winning the Frank Stilwell Award not only increases Cooper’s credibility but also provides financial support for his research. Mr Cooper would like to thank his supervisors Professor Martin Konings and Dr Gareth Bryant, as well as his mentors Tatiana Andersen and Frank Stilwell, for their continued support and encouragement throughout his education, passion and life. He expressed his gratitude to his family.
