November 24
Done
“Mere Economics”

“Mere Economics”

February 4, 2022
 
“I want to understand the basics of economics. What should I read?”
That’s probably the question I get more than any other from students and curious people from all walks of life. I say “curious” because, to my mind, curiosity is the most important trait a person can have for learning economics.
What such a person is asking for is what I sometimes call “mere economics.” What are the basic principles that economists, through the generations, have believed and taught? A knowledge of economics—the science of tradeoffs—should include a grasp of choice, cost, specialization, exchange, property, prices, and profit & loss.
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If someone had a spare half hour (or less) for thirty-one days—a month—here’s what I’d suggest they read:
1.
24.
31.
Heilbroner: “Socialism”