Good suggestions given so far...another one I've had to tirelessly explain to non-econ people is Art Laffer, hero for popularizing the Laffer Curve and giving 1980's hack reporters ammunition against supply-side economics and the "Laugher Curve." He didn't invent the idea behind the curve, he just put it in a graph. He may not be a good choice if you want to explore depth of work or overall economic contribution, but if you think you can squeeze a paper out of the economic and political ramifications of the Laffer Curve, go for it. Good luck.

Laffer Curve article by Laffer

ScottieK