Steven D. Levitt, co-author of “Freakonomics: A Rogue Economist Explains the Hidden Side of Everything,” will speak from 12:30-2 p.m. Oct. 31 at Rackham Auditorium in a Policy Talks @ The Ford School presentation.

Levitt’s free talk is the highlight of the Gerald R. Ford of Public Policy Centennial Reunion, Oct. 31-Nov. 1. Centennial activities continue with a festive trick-or-treat open house at Weill Hall and the homecoming football game at the Big House.

Levitt also is co-author, along with Stephen J. Dubner, of “Freakonomics” (2005), “Superfreakonomics” (2009), and the recently published “Think Like a Freak” (2014). Levitt is the William B. Ogden Distinguished Service Professor of Economics at the University of Chicago, where he directs the Becker Center on Chicago Price Theory.

Through forceful storytelling and wry insight, Levitt and Dubner they show that economics is, at root, the study of incentives — how people get what they want or need. By looking at social trends with a fresh eye, they seek to make the study of economic trends fun and adventurous.

Seating passes are required for entry. They can be picked up at the Michigan Union Ticket Office through Oct. 31. For more information on the centennial celebration, go to fordschool.umich.edu/100-reunion.