Michael Blowhard writes:

Dear Blowhards --

Sicko that I am, I've read or listened to more than 20 introductions to economics. And, while many have been helpful and good, I can't think of a better way for math-o-phobes to get the hang of econ than by listening to Timothy Taylor's Teaching Company lecture series. I notice that all -- all! -- of Taylor's audio series are now on sale. Grab 'em while they're cheap.

Hey, lib-arts people -- econ is cool! God knows economics doesn't explain everything that happens in the world. And it's important to beware of economism, the belief that economics is at the root of it all. But god also knows that econ can sure help explain an awful lot.

And here's an inspiration for those looking for unusual Xmas ideas: why not give a gift certificate from the Teaching Company?

Best,

Michael

re: economism, the belief that economics is at the root of it all

i believe that's more widely known as "economic determinism," as opposed to say jared diamond's "geographic determinism" or david landes' "cultural determinism." me, i'm partial to "technological determinism" :D but! i must also say i'm fond of historical materialism, particularly of the benedict anderson variety, which elides determinism in favor of chance and luck -- "The unpredictable, the untimely death, the freakish accident, the inexplicable epidemic." this i think, sorta ironically, also allows for human agency, decision and individual action.

that said, might i recommend robert heilbroner's the worldly philosophers? i think it's a nice introduction to "The Lives, Times And Ideas Of The Great Economic Thinkers" :D

cheers!

Posted by: glory on November 27, 2004 2:11 PM






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