SLATER, Gilbert. Plymouth 27.8.1864 — Oxford 8.3.1938. British Economist and Social Reformer. Son of a school teacher, Daniel Slater. Studied economics (M.A.), one of the first doctors of the London School of Economics. In 1909-15 Principal of Ruskin College in Oxford. From 1915 the first Professor of economics at Madras University, then 1921-22 in Madras Legislative Council before returning to the U.K. Married 1897 Violet Oakeshott, at least one son.
Slater had studied Tamil in London as preparation for his career in India. With his team he performed a survey of the villages of Madras Presidency and suggested important economic improvements in order to eradicate poverty. At the same time he developed a keen interest in Dravidian culture. In retirement he concentrated on Shakespeare studies (with the curious theory of seven different writers as the real authors of the plays).
Publications: Some South Indian Villages. 265 p. L. 1919.
– The Dravidian Element in Indian Culture. 192 p. 7 pl. L. 1924.
– Southern India, Its Political and Economic Problems. 383 p. L. 1936.
– Also wrote much on British economy and on Shakespeare.
Sources: *G.D.H. Cole, Economic Journal 48, 1938, 343f.; *H. Pollins, Slater, Gilbert (1864–1938). O.U.P. 2004; Wikipedia.
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