Date on Honors Thesis
Spring 4-24-2025
Major
Accounting/Finance
Examining Committee Member
Dr. Samer Khalil, Advisor
Examining Committee Member
Dr. Leigh Johnson, Committee Member
Examining Committee Member
Dr. David Eaton, Committee Member
Abstract/Description
Over centuries, disease has been an instigator of economic change. From the Black Death and the overturning of feudalism to the Spanish flu and its relationship with World War 1, pandemics have a profound effect on the social, political, and economic climate of the affected areas. In 2020, COVID-19 began in Wuhan, China and spread across the world rapidly and unexpectedly. The world economy was forced into a recession with major effects on industries such as airlines, energy, and automobiles. While some industries made smooth recoveries, the pandemic undeniably altered the way business is conducted. The shift between in-person and remote business accelerated and resilience became a top priority for business executives. This research aims to observe the effects of various pandemics on the economy, including the Black Death, the Spanish Flu, and the most recent COVID-19 pandemic, and give an overview of some of the industries most affected by the pandemic.
Recommended Citation
Howell, Ryan, "Examining the Impact of Widespread Disease on the Economy" (2025). Honors College Theses. 281.
https://digitalcommons.murraystate.edu/honorstheses/281