History
Internationally Recognized Academic Contribution, “Divine Economics”: In my PhD research, I studied the role of faith in economic behavior under the assumption that God exists, and that people perceive a life after death, a purgatory, a day of judgment and heaven or hell. The study assumed that these perceptions are likely to influence human behavior in a systematic manner that need to be analyzed but is neglected by contemporary mainstream economics. The study presented a theoretical framework, developed a mathematical model, prepared a questionnaire covering hundreds of variables and conducted empirical analysis of various interrelationships among economics, health, voluntary behavior, leisure choices, market activities and home-related activities – all in perspective of religiosity level of individuals. These tools of analysis followed by a series of scientific articles based on this framework were later termed as ‘Divine Economics’ that is defined as ‘the study of economics and religion in each other’s perspective using scientific process’. Prof Richard B Freeman of Harvard University was among the three international economists who evaluated this dissertation. According to his remarks, mine was the largest dataset of the world on religion and economics (October 2004). Based on the same work, Labor & Work life Program (L&WP), Harvard University offered me Wertheim Fellowship from June to September 2006. I extended the Divine Economics Framework to apply it on analysis of victims of a disaster. I designed a comprehensive disaster analysis framework emerging from inside view and also conducted a survey in earthquake affected areas of Pakistan and Azad Jammu & Kashmir with the financial support from L&WP, Harvard University.
Development of Religiosity Scales: Since the validity of faith-based economic modeling crucially depends upon the measurement of religiosity of individuals, my contribution to quantify religious behavior through ‘religiosity Scales’ for economic analysis is gaining respect everywhere. The HEC approved national curriculum of economics includes sections based on my work that is available for all universities in Pakistan.
Extension in Divine Economics: This data set is now being used for analysis by experts of variety of disciplines especially economics who are extending the doctrine of Divine Economics. Recognizing the same contribution, the London School of Economics has invited me and a number of scholars in different countries have contacted by email. The Carrier Management Institute Karachi has prepared a Website about my work and personal profile (to be launched). Many dissertations at Masters’/M.Phil/PhD level are either submitted or in progress which are based on my framework.