My name is Benjamin Bauer. I am a 4th year PhD Student of Economics at George Mason University. I completed my undergraduate degree in Economics and Germanic Languages at Hillsdale College in 2022. I live in Oakton Virginia with my wife, Rachel. I will be starting as an Assistant Professor of Economics at Palm Beach Atlantic University in Fall 2026. 

My primary research interests are the political economy of religious institutions and competition in religious markets. I am also interested in topics related to the conflict between church and state, the development of religious doctrine and its impact on economic outcomes, and legislative behavior. 

You can contact me at: bbauer2@gmu.edu