Economics and Economic Freedom

A free and prosperous society requires a functioning market economy at its foundation. Using a broad array of tools drawn from price theory, public choice analysis, Austrian theory, and classical empiricism, our study of economics and economic freedom explores the underpinnings of the market system, the roots of economic prosperity, and emerging threats to the same in the public policy sphere. Our work includes the measurement of freedom and providing practical economic information for people to make better decisions.

Articles

The Rise of the Erudite Technocrats

“The expert, as ushered into politics by people like Jan Tinbergen’s brand of highly capable and motivated scientists, has been here for a long time. Whether they’re here to stay is a different matter.” ~ Joakim Book

Economics of Liberty

“Freedom Fest 2021 was fun and instructive. Liberty lovers can discuss important policy matters face-to-face to great effect but some need to delve a bit deeper into the economic theories discussed at places like AIER if they really want to improve the world.” ~ Robert E. Wright

Covid Policy and Outcomes

“Science was repeatedly invoked, but at least the actions I examined here were not supported by science. The reason for this may have been identified by Lord Acton in the 19th century. ‘Power tends to corrupt, and absolute power corrupts absolutely.'” ~ Gerald P. O’Driscoll, Jr.

Sweden to the Political Left of the Whole USA?

“Leftists might deny that they generally favor greater governmentalization, but the reality is that their ideas and policies almost always lead to bigger government. They often seem to be in denial about that, just as they are in denial about the downside of governmentalizing social affairs.” ~ Daniel B. Klein

What’s in a Name? Quite a Lot, Actually

“After studying economics, I started to understand what brand names do. Social phenomena persist because they solve problems, and brand names solve significant information problems. I think critics of brand names and marketing would do well to give consumers the benefit of the doubt.” ~ Art Carden

Will More Media Bias Save Democracy?

“Washington Post media columnist Margaret Sullivan is urging journalists to become openly biased. Sullivan claims this is necessary to save democracy. But most Washington reporters have more affection for Leviathan than for liberty or democracy.” ~ James Bovard