Stern Stories

Explore Possible: "In Conversation with Mervyn King" - Michael Lewis

Quote icon
I believe I have a responsibility to share stories that are important. – Michael Lewis
On December 8, NYU Stern hosted the second installment of the "In Conversation with Mervyn King" series featuring Michael Lewis, best-selling author of Liar's Poker, Moneyball, The Blind Side and Flash Boys, on his new book The Undoing Project: A Friendship that Changed Our Minds. Lord King, former Governor of the Bank of England, Baron King of Lothbury, Alan Greenspan Professor of Economics and Professor of Economics and Law at NYU, moderated the one-on-one interview, followed by an open Q&A session.

Taking part in his first public event on The Undoing Project, Lewis shared insights on his writing process, noting that the piece was one of the most challenging projects of his career. He said, “This book isn’t about me. It’s about the material in which I’m entrusted to tell. It was a challenge but it was important enough to justify it because people cared.”

Lewis also spoke to the audience of students and alumni about his unique ability to find and share worthwhile stories. He mentioned that in order for him to take on a new project, he must by moved by fascinating characters: “Finding a meaningful story that no one else finds meaningful at the time is the trick to me.”

Lord King wrapped up the conversation with a reflection on the broad impact of Lewis’ work before turning the floor over to the audience for questions.