Exploding myths about debt

Third year students of economic geography wrapped up this term with a film preview and discussion with the makers of ‘Bank Job’ – a new documentary that explores where money comes from, how debt works, and what it takes to blow up £1.2 million of distressed loans.

The events were hosted by Dr Amy Horton and Dr Chris Harker (UCL Institute for Global Prosperity) with students from both departments and the artist/filmmaker team, Dan Edelstyn and Hilary Powell.

Inspired by movements to cancel medical and student debt in the US, the film explores how London community groups are supporting people struggling financially – from food banks and youth groups to schools facing austerity.

To raise money for these groups and engage people in debates about how finance should work, the Bank Job team take over an empty bank branch, create their own currency and write off predatory debts. We hear from researchers and activists looking to transform the financial system.

For the first time since the film was previewed, students of the ‘Geography of Money and Finance’ course had a chance to meet the filmmakers and discuss how art can influence government policy and economic geographies.

For more information about the project, see Bank Job.