Basic Economics

A Citizen's Guide to the Economy

By: Thomas Sowell

Narrated by: Brian Emerson

Length: 18 hrs and 31 mins

Publisher's summary

Basic Economics has been written with the thought that learning economics should be not only a relaxed experience but also an enjoyable one.

This is the revised and expanded edition of a new kind of introduction to economics for the general public, without graphs, statistics, or jargon. However, the enlargement of this edition is not just more of the same. In addition to being updated, Basic Economics has also become more international, with the inclusion of economic problems from more countries around the world, because the basic principles of economics are not confined by national borders. Each chapter reflects the experiences of many different peoples and cultures.

©2004 Thomas Sowell (P)2006 Blackstone Audiobooks

Critic reviews

"Clear and concise....Among economists of the past 30 years, [Sowell] stands very proud indeed." (The Wall Street Journal)
"Basic Economics is not only valuable for a general lay-person audience, it would also benefit lawyers, politicians, and, yes, economists, as well." (Washington Times)

Interesting and Enlightening, if not Impartial

I read some of the Audible listener reviews before listening to this title and I have to agree with the sentiment that the author has a conservative agenda behind his statements. There are a couple of direct attacks against liberal bastions like the Washington Post and the scorn for any kind of government-sponsored social welfare is rife within the book, but it's overwhelmed by scorn about government intervention in general. The book is packed full of the cold, black and white thinking I've come to expect from economist writers. The author isn't interested in exploring the potential merits of any side other than the one he's taken. Everything is presented as fact and it's up to the reader to question legitimacy. Much of what is presented, however, makes perfect sense and it's tempting to take the author at his word.

more basics

i would hope it would provide more basic facts ,but over all it was good

A revelation

This book is simply a revelation about local, national, and global economics. It challenged many of my beliefs and long held assumptions. I agree with a previous reviewer; this book should be required reading in every high school.

Excellent economics for citizens

Very good explanation of economic principles for common people in a very approachable and engaging language. Contributes to close the huge knowledge gap that plagues our society in a topic so important for our everyday life. Would be interesting to know if people with absolutely no economic/business background find the book intelligible.
The author seems more of "laissez-faire" in ideology but maintains a more or less even keel throughout the book. Although Europeans and "big government" Americans might find some of the principles taken a bit further than the evidence seems to warrant, it is very thought provoking in many other points challenging existing orthodoxy and making it a wholly interesting read for anyone

Economics is important!

It is amazing how many people discuss economics without a clear understanding of cause and effect. I admit, I had several misconcieved notions myself! Thomas Sowell does a wonderful job of explaining just how economics work, from pricing, supply, demand, etc. Sowell does this in an easy-to-understand method, and gives plenty of examples to prove his point.
I highly recommend this book, and am looking forward to listening to his advanced economics book!

very good

Narrator was very good. Book was very wide in its scope. I particularly liked the authors use of examples throughout the book. If you want a basic econ primer, this one doesnt put you to sleep.

good information

I liked this book because it gives different insights to economics and how they would function in a free market. while I do not agree with everything in their book that's not what books are about. it's definitely worth the listen or read.

Real World 101

Excellent overview of economics accessible to anybody, clearly explains why individualism and a free market economy are the foundations of a prosperous society and what happens when you mess with it.

Top Knotch

Professor Sowell presents a first-class coverage of economics and why it is important for all members of society to have a core understanding of economic principals.

a must

this is one of the most important book for yourlife. it is a must for anybody anywhere and anytime and anyage.