We are constantly bombarded by politicians declaring the importance of “creating jobs” in the economy. We regularly see government initiatives like public works projects, “stimulus” programs, and government subsidies enacted […]
Tag: Economic Education
Yes, the Fed Is a Failure
Governor DeSantis recently took aim at the Federal Reserve, presumably to bolster his national-issues profile ahead of announcing a run for the presidency, which he is expected to do in […]
Some Factual and Economic Errors of “Common Good Capitalism”
There’s been much talk lately of “common good capitalism.” Among the leading voices insisting that the state must engineer capitalism to ensure that it serves the common good are Senator […]
Protectionism Benefits Some at the Expense of Others
When politicians enact laws to put America first, they put some Americans more first than others. The protectionist policies sponsored by both Republicans and Democrats are ostensibly about favoring domestic […]
Why Did The Redcoats Wear Red Coats?
The shots that rang out on April 19, 1775 in Lexington and Concord are widely considered to be the opening salvo in the US War for Independence. Although we may […]
Interest Rates, the Money Supply, and Say’s Law
Andy Kessler at the Wall Street Journal wrote an interesting column about the perils of stimulating demand in a supply-constrained environment. He argues, correctly, that expansionary monetary policy is more […]
Is It An Economic Crime To Import a Soccer Jersey?
I committed an economic crime recently. In the past few months, I’ve permitted myself to spend a few dollars frivolously when I publish an article or give a speech. Most […]
Manners, the Coase Theorem, and a Park Bench in London
If you are in a crowded airplane, flying in coach, is it okay to lean your seat back? If you’re in the middle seat, should you just assume you get […]
Don’t Expand Deposit Insurance. Abolish It!
The collapse of Silicon Valley Bank has some policymakers considering expanding government deposit insurance to cover all deposits. Those advocating such a move believe it will help stabilize the banking […]
Economists’ Meaning of “Consumption”
Natural language is a wonderful tool for communication. By using language, we humans manipulate air, paper, and pixels to transport ideas from one brain to other brains. Language allows each […]