Economics in One Lesson

By: Henry Hazlitt

Narrated by: Jeff Riggenbach

Length: 6 hrs and 55 mins

Publisher's summary

A million-copy seller, Henry Hazlitt’s Economics in One Lesson is a classic economic primer. But it is also much more, having become a fundamental influence on modern “libertarian” economics of the type espoused by Ron Paul and others. Called by H. L. Mencken “one of the few economists in history who could really write,” Henry Hazlitt achieved lasting fame for this brilliant but concise work. In it, he explains basic truths about economics and the economic fallacies responsible for unemployment, inflation, high taxes, and recession, as well as illustrating the destructive effects of taxes, rent and price controls, inflation, trade restrictions, and minimum-wage laws.

Economics in One Lesson is deceptively prescient and far-reaching in its efforts to dissemble economic fallacies that are so prevalent they have almost become a new orthodoxy. Many current economic commentators across the political spectrum have credited Hazlitt with foreseeing the collapse of the global economy, which occurred more than fifty years after the initial publication of this seminal work. Hazlitt’s focus on non-governmental solutions, strong—and strongly reasoned—antideficit position, and general emphasis on free markets, economic liberty of individuals, and the dangers of government intervention make Economics in One Lesson every bit as relevant and valuable today as it has been since publication.

©1962, 1979 by Henry Hazlitt (P)1996 by Blackstone Audiobooks

Critic reviews

"If there were a Nobel Prize for clear economic thinking, Mr. Hazlitt's book would be a worthy recipient...like a surgeon's scalpel, it cuts through...much nonsense that has been written in recent years about our economic ailments." (J.W. Hanes, former Undersecretary of the Treasury)

Good overview of economics

Enjoyed it very much. You will get a basic overview of how the economy works.

The truth about Economics

This book is excellent as it takes the myths that people have about economics and gives instruction on the falsehoods of those statements. Myths people have such as "War is good for the economy" etc. are expertly handled. This book was written some time ago and stands the test of time. These principles ring true years later. If you want to continue to believe that you can get something for nothing or that through higher taxes and more government spending you will have a greater society then don't buy this book. If you want to understand the truth of economics then look no further.

Should be required reading for all voters

I LOVED this book. It was clear and easy to follow. Most of all, it was so compelling and the logic was so sound. Too often we ignore sound economic wisdom in the pursuit of small gain. The results are all to predictable. (Can you say financial crisis?) Do yourself a favor and enjoy this quick listen. You will be so much wiser as a result.

The Best Book on Economics

Would you consider the audio edition of Economics in One Lesson to be better than the print version?

Unknown

What other book might you compare Economics in One Lesson to and why?

Basic Economics by Thomas Sowell is equally brilliant.

Which scene was your favorite?

I don't understand the question

What insight do you think you’ll apply from Economics in One Lesson?

This book is all you need to know about economics and nothing you don't.

Any additional comments?

This is the best primer on economics ever. If you know nothing about economics you must listen to this book. This book explains how the economy actually works. It is as timely today as it was 30, 40 or 50 years ago.

Never been more relevant

The author is articulate and has depth of thought that has been all but lost in the intervening decades filled with an ever faster race toward short term thinking by politicians as well as the general population of Western countries. This book has never been more relevant. Required reading.

Thought Provoking

This book connects values such as interest rates to people's savings and helps to clarify how often when government attempts to help it does more harm than good. I'll have to revisit this book again after I've had an opportunity to revisit my own opinions.

The Feels.

This book was interesting and simple to keep up with. It is however, outdated. Thanks.

Critical knowledge for each generation

The author himself states that the information in this book is nothing new but that people and generations seem to keep forgetting it. I highly recommend this book.

EVERYTHING YOU NEED to KNOW

What did you love best about Economics in One Lesson?

...about the political and economical arguments on both side of the equation! While it is true that the first edition was published in the 40s and the updated edition in the late 70s (still 40 years ago might seem outdated), the issues and arguments he addresses in this book are still just as relevant and important today! Economist and politicians are still making the same errors he discredits in this book. In your heart you may know that things such as creating huge public works solely in the name of "full employment" or arbitrarily raising the minimum wage, are wrong; but you might not know how to articulate it in a discussion with friends or family or even in a full on debate. Henry Hazlitt will catch you all the way up to speed in this short and easy to understand book! Read it and share it with your friends; the world needs to know!
- Jon Morris

Brutally Honest and Simple Econ Lesson

Very enlightening book. Every voting citizen should listen to this lesson. Hazlitt will challenge your preconceived notions of economics and their respective policy.