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New Ideas from Dead Economists

New Ideas from Dead Economists

An Introduction to Modern Economic Thought
by Todd G. Buchholz 1989 352 pages
3.84
2k+ ratings
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Key Takeaways

1. Economics is About Choice, Not Just Money

Economics is the study of choice. It does not tell us what to choose. It only helps us understand the consequences of our choices.

Beyond the Dismal Science. Economics is not merely about money or cold calculations, but about the fundamental human activity of making choices under conditions of scarcity. It provides a framework for understanding the trade-offs inherent in every decision, from individual consumption to government policy. Economists act as messengers, not causes, of difficult choices.

Choice and Consequences. Every decision, whether it's choosing between cleaner air and faster cars or bigger houses and bigger parks, involves opportunity costs. Economics helps us understand these costs, allowing for more informed decision-making. The great economists sought to improve the world by blending science with a devotion to people.

Politics and Economics. The strongest link between economics and the real world has always been politics. Indeed, until this century economics was called “political economy.” Almost all of the stellar economists served at some level of government. The interplay between government and economists is crucial, as policies are shaped by economic ideas, and economists must understand the political context in which their advice is implemented.

2. Adam Smith's Invisible Hand: Self-Interest and the Free Market

He . . . neither intends to promote the publick interest, nor knows how much he is promoting it . . . he intends only his own gain, and he is in this, as in many other cases, led by an invisible hand to promote an end which was no part of his intention.

The Power of Self-Interest. Adam Smith argued that individuals pursuing their own self-interest unintentionally benefit society as a whole. This "invisible hand" guides resources to their most productive uses, fostering innovation and economic growth. The butcher, the brewer, and the baker provide our dinner not out of benevolence, but out of their own self-interest.

Free Market Principles. The free market, driven by competition and the pursuit of profit, acts as a powerful regulator. It encourages producers to offer goods and services that consumers want at prices they are willing to pay. High prices and profits signal demand, while low profits or losses signal inefficiency.

Limitations and Warnings. Smith was not a naive advocate of unbridled capitalism. He warned against the potential for businesses to collude against consumers and emphasized the importance of ethical behavior and government oversight to ensure fair competition. He also recognized the potential for division of labor to lead to worker alienation, advocating for public education as a remedy.

3. Division of Labor: The Engine of Economic Growth

Division of labor is the great cause of the increase of public opulence, which is always proportioned to the industry of the people, and not to the quantity of gold and silver, as is foolishly imagined.

Specialization and Productivity. Adam Smith identified division of labor as a key driver of economic growth. By specializing in specific tasks, workers become more skilled and efficient, leading to a dramatic increase in overall productivity. Smith's famous example of the pin factory illustrates this point, where dividing the production process into eighteen distinct operations resulted in a massive increase in output.

Benefits of Division of Labor:

  • Increased skill and dexterity
  • Reduced time wasted switching tasks
  • Greater likelihood of invention and innovation

Free Trade and Market Expansion. Division of labor is most effective when markets are large and trade is free. By allowing towns, cities, and countries to specialize in what they do best, free trade expands the overall wealth of nations. Smith argued that England would gain from trade if it could buy a good from another country for less than the cost of producing that good in England.

4. Malthus's Population Trap: A Cautionary Tale

Famine seems to be the last, the most dreadful resource of nature.

Population Growth vs. Food Supply. Thomas Robert Malthus argued that population tends to grow geometrically, while food production increases arithmetically. This imbalance, he warned, would lead to widespread poverty, famine, and disease, keeping living standards at a subsistence level. Malthus identified "positive checks" (war, famine, plagues) and "preventative checks" (moral restraint) as the forces that limit population growth.

Malthus's Errors. Malthus's predictions proved largely inaccurate due to technological advancements in agriculture, medicine, and sanitation. He failed to anticipate the Industrial Revolution and the demographic transition, which saw birth rates decline as societies became wealthier.

Relevance Today. While Malthus's specific predictions did not come to pass, his concerns about resource scarcity and population growth remain relevant today. Modern Malthusians point to issues such as climate change, resource depletion, and environmental degradation as potential threats to human well-being.

5. Ricardo's Comparative Advantage: Trade Benefits All

[W]ithout foreign commerce, the means of production would be far more limited, and, consequently, so would be the real and efficient power of all classes to purchase commodities.

Beyond Absolute Advantage. David Ricardo refined Adam Smith's theory of trade by introducing the concept of comparative advantage. Even if one country is more efficient at producing everything, both countries can still benefit from trade by specializing in the goods they produce relatively more efficiently. This principle applies to individuals, businesses, and nations.

Opportunity Cost. Comparative advantage is determined by comparing the opportunity costs of producing different goods. A country should specialize in the goods for which it has the lowest opportunity cost, even if it is not the most efficient producer overall.

The Gains from Trade. By specializing and trading, countries can consume beyond their own production possibilities. This leads to higher living standards and greater overall wealth. Ricardo's theory provides a powerful argument against protectionism and in favor of free trade.

6. Mill's Blend: Balancing Freedom and Social Welfare

A person may cause evil to others not only by his actions, but by his inaction, and in either case he is justly accountable to them for the injury.

Individual Liberty and Social Responsibility. John Stuart Mill sought to reconcile individual liberty with the need for social welfare. He believed that individuals should be free to pursue their own interests, as long as they do not harm others. However, he also recognized the importance of government intervention to protect the vulnerable and promote the common good.

The Harm Principle. Mill's "harm principle" states that the only justification for limiting individual liberty is to prevent harm to others. This principle provides a framework for balancing individual rights with the needs of society.

Government Intervention. Mill supported government intervention in areas such as education, environmental protection, and poverty reduction. However, he cautioned against excessive government control and emphasized the importance of individual initiative and self-reliance.

7. Marx's Critique: Capitalism's Internal Contradictions

The knell of capitalist private property sounds. The expropriators are expropriated.

Historical Materialism. Karl Marx argued that history is driven by material forces, particularly the mode of production. Each economic system, from slavery to feudalism to capitalism, contains internal contradictions that eventually lead to its downfall.

Exploitation of Labor. Marx believed that capitalism is inherently exploitative, as capitalists extract surplus value from workers by paying them less than the value they produce. This exploitation, he argued, leads to class struggle and ultimately revolution.

The Inevitable Collapse. Marx predicted that capitalism would eventually collapse due to falling profit rates, increasing concentration of economic power, and the growing misery of the proletariat. This collapse would pave the way for a communist society based on equality and cooperation.

8. Marshall's Marginalism: Incremental Decisions Matter

The price of anything will be found to be determined at the margin.

Focus on Incremental Changes. Alfred Marshall emphasized the importance of marginal analysis, which focuses on the incremental changes in costs and benefits that drive economic decisions. Consumers and producers make decisions by comparing the marginal utility of an additional unit of consumption with its marginal cost.

Supply and Demand. Marshall famously compared supply and demand to the blades of a pair of scissors, arguing that both are essential for determining prices. He developed the concepts of short-run and long-run equilibrium to analyze how markets adjust over time.

The Importance of Time. Marshall recognized that time plays a crucial role in economic analysis. He distinguished between the short run, where some factors are fixed, and the long run, where all factors are variable. This distinction allows for a more nuanced understanding of how markets respond to changes in supply and demand.

9. Veblen's Critique: Conspicuous Consumption and the Leisure Class

The motive that lies at the root of ownership is emulation.

Beyond Basic Needs. Thorstein Veblen challenged the neoclassical assumption that consumers are rational and self-interested. He argued that much of consumption is driven by social status and the desire to impress others.

Conspicuous Consumption and Leisure. Veblen coined the terms "conspicuous consumption" and "conspicuous leisure" to describe the ways in which the wealthy display their status through extravagant spending and non-productive activities. These behaviors, he argued, are driven by the "emulatory instinct," the desire to keep up with or surpass one's peers.

The Instinct of Workmanship. Veblen also emphasized the importance of the "instinct of workmanship," the innate human desire to create and improve things. However, he argued that this instinct is often suppressed by the capitalist system, which prioritizes profit over quality and usefulness.

10. Public Choice: Politicians as Self-Interested Actors

The great advantage of democracy . . . is that it makes it possible for the people to get rid of a government they dislike without bloodshed.

Applying Economics to Politics. The Public Choice school applies economic principles to the study of political behavior. It assumes that politicians, bureaucrats, and voters are all self-interested actors who seek to maximize their own utility.

Special Interest Groups. Public Choice economists argue that special interest groups exert undue influence on government policy. These groups, often representing narrow economic interests, are able to lobby for policies that benefit them at the expense of the broader public.

Rational Ignorance. Voters often remain rationally ignorant of complex policy issues, as the costs of becoming informed outweigh the potential benefits. This allows special interest groups to manipulate public opinion and influence policy decisions.

11. Rational Expectations: The Limits of Government Intervention

The only relevant test of the validity of a hypothesis is comparison of its predictions with experience.

Markets Clear and People are Rational. Rational Expectations theory assumes that markets clear quickly and that people use all available information to form rational expectations about the future. This implies that government policies, if anticipated, will have little or no effect on the economy.

The Lucas Critique. A key implication of Rational Expectations is the Lucas Critique, which states that econometric models based on past data are unreliable for predicting the effects of new government policies. This is because people will change their behavior in response to the new policies, rendering the old models obsolete.

Limited Government Power. Rational Expectations theorists argue that government intervention is often ineffective or even counterproductive. They advocate for stable, predictable policies and a limited role for government in the economy.

12. The Enduring Relevance of Economic Thought

The world is ruled by little else [than the ideas of economists and political philosophers].

Lessons from the Past. The history of economic thought provides valuable insights into the challenges and opportunities facing modern economies. By studying the ideas of past economists, we can better understand the forces that shape our world and make more informed decisions about economic policy.

The Importance of Humility. Economics is a complex and ever-evolving field. Economists should be wary of overconfidence and recognize the limitations of their models. The best economists are those who combine rigorous analysis with a healthy dose of humility.

A Continuous Debate. The debate over economic ideas is ongoing. New challenges and new perspectives constantly emerge, forcing economists to re-evaluate their assumptions and refine their theories. This continuous process of intellectual inquiry is essential for advancing our understanding of the economy and improving the lives of people around the world.

Last updated:

FAQ

What's New Ideas from Dead Economists about?

  • Exploration of Economic Thought: The book introduces modern economic theories through the lives and ideas of influential economists, from Adam Smith to John Maynard Keynes.
  • Historical Context: It examines how historical events and societal changes influenced economic thought, highlighting the relevance of these ideas today.
  • Accessible Writing: Todd G. Buchholz uses clear language and relatable examples to make complex economic theories understandable for lay readers.

Why should I read New Ideas from Dead Economists?

  • Engaging Narrative: The book is praised for its witty and engaging style, making economics enjoyable rather than daunting.
  • Understanding Economic Principles: It provides a foundational understanding of key economic concepts, essential for informed discussions about current economic policies.
  • Historical Relevance: By connecting past economic theories to present-day issues, the book helps readers appreciate the evolution of economic thought.

What are the key takeaways of New Ideas from Dead Economists?

  • Influence of Historical Economists: Economists like Adam Smith and Karl Marx have shaped modern economic policies and debates, with lasting impacts.
  • Economic Theories Explained: Concepts such as the "invisible hand," comparative advantage, and the labor theory of value are explained in relatable terms.
  • Critique of Economic Policies: Buchholz critiques contemporary policies through historical theories, encouraging critical thinking about their effectiveness.

What are the best quotes from New Ideas from Dead Economists and what do they mean?

  • Adaptability and Resilience: “The history of economic thought teaches us that success often goes to the hungry, the humble, and the limber.”
  • Self-Interest in Economics: “It is not from the benevolence of the butcher, the brewer, or the baker, that we expect our dinner, but from their regard to their own interest.”
  • Caution Against Oversimplification: “The principal cause of error... appears to me to be, a precipitate attempt to simplify and generalize.”

Who are the main economists discussed in New Ideas from Dead Economists?

  • Adam Smith: Known as the father of modern economics, his ideas about free markets and the "invisible hand" are foundational.
  • Karl Marx: His critique of capitalism and theories on class struggle provide a counterpoint to classical economic theories.
  • John Stuart Mill: His contributions to utilitarianism and views on social justice highlight the ethical dimensions of economics.

What is the significance of the "invisible hand" in New Ideas from Dead Economists?

  • Market Self-Regulation: The "invisible hand" describes how self-interest can lead to positive societal outcomes, like economic growth.
  • Critique of Government Intervention: Buchholz argues against excessive regulation, suggesting markets function best independently.
  • Real-World Applications: The book illustrates how this concept operates in various scenarios, showing individual actions can benefit society.

How does New Ideas from Dead Economists address the concept of comparative advantage?

  • Definition and Importance: Comparative advantage occurs when a country or individual can produce a good at a lower opportunity cost, leading to efficient trade.
  • Example of Specialization: Buchholz uses examples to show how trade benefits parties, even if one is more efficient in all tasks.
  • Implications for Trade Policy: Understanding comparative advantage is crucial for policies that enhance overall welfare through free trade.

What critiques does New Ideas from Dead Economists offer regarding modern economic policies?

  • Criticism of Protectionism: Protectionist policies like tariffs harm consumers and hinder growth, echoing Ricardo's views on free trade.
  • Ineffectiveness of Welfare Programs: Welfare policies that discourage work can perpetuate poverty rather than alleviate it.
  • Need for Economic Literacy: Understanding economic principles is vital for informed policy decisions affecting everyday life.

How does Buchholz connect historical economic theories to contemporary issues in New Ideas from Dead Economists?

  • Relevance of Historical Context: Past economists' ideas inform current debates on trade, taxation, and government intervention.
  • Case Studies and Examples: Contemporary examples show how historical theories apply to modern challenges, making content relatable.
  • Encouragement of Critical Thinking: Linking historical theories to present issues encourages critical evaluation of current policies.

What is the Marginalist Consumer concept in New Ideas from Dead Economists?

  • Marginal Utility Explained: Consumers make decisions based on the additional satisfaction from consuming one more unit of a good.
  • Diminishing Returns: Additional satisfaction diminishes with more consumption, affecting willingness to pay.
  • Demand Curve Relationship: This principle leads to the law of demand, illustrating the downward-sloping demand curve.

How does New Ideas from Dead Economists explain the relationship between inflation and unemployment?

  • Phillips Curve Concept: Suggests an inverse relationship where lower unemployment can lead to higher inflation.
  • Friedman's Critique: Argues the relationship is unstable, and exploiting it can lead to stagflation.
  • Policy Implications: Emphasizes the need for a balanced approach to managing inflation and unemployment.

What is the Efficient Market Hypothesis mentioned in New Ideas from Dead Economists?

  • Market Efficiency: Posits that financial markets are "informationally efficient," with asset prices reflecting all available information.
  • Implications for Investors: Suggests it's impossible to consistently achieve higher returns than the market average.
  • Behavioral Economics Challenge: Highlights irrational investor behavior, suggesting markets may not always behave rationally.

Review Summary

3.84 out of 5
Average of 2k+ ratings from Goodreads and Amazon.

New Ideas from Dead Economists presents an accessible overview of economic thought, covering major economists and their theories. Readers appreciate its engaging writing style and humor, though some note bias in certain chapters. The book provides a solid introduction to economic history and concepts for laypeople, explaining complex ideas through relatable examples. While some find it dated, many praise its ability to make economics understandable and interesting. Critics argue it oversimplifies certain theories and shows favoritism towards particular economic schools of thought.

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About the Author

Todd G. Buchholz is a prominent American economist with extensive experience in academia, government, and business. He served as a senior economic advisor at the White House and was considered for the Federal Reserve. Buchholz holds degrees from prestigious institutions and has taught at Harvard. He is a prolific writer and commentator, contributing to major publications and appearing on television networks. Buchholz is involved in various business ventures and speaks globally on economic issues. His work has been widely translated, and he has achieved success in fields beyond economics, including theater production.

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