Has economics fallen to politics? Court economists like Paul Krugman–we might call them "regime economists"–represent a profession in big trouble. Jeff and Bob discuss.

In this solo episode, Bob challenges the populist narrative that private equity ownership of homes is the main driver of rising housing costs. He explains the actual role of speculators in stabilizing markets, compares housing to used car dealerships, and critiques proposals like Henry George’s land tax. Bob also points to zoning restrictions and the Federal Reserve’s balance sheet as the real culprits behind skyrocketing prices.

• The Social Function of Stock Speculators: Mises.org/HAP518a
• Rothbard's Treatise, Man, Economy, and State: Mises.org/HAP518b
• Bob's Study Guide to Man, Economy, and State: Mises.org/HAP518c

The Mises Institute is giving away 100,000 copies of Hayek for the 21st Century. Get your free copy at Mises.org/HAPodFree

Bob talks with economist Jeff Degner about his new book Inflation and the Family. Drawing inspiration from Guido Hülsmann’s The Ethics of Money Production, Professor Degner shows how central bank policies and interest rate manipulation create ripple effects beyond prices and GDP. From marriage formation to fertility decisions and divorce trends, he explains how inflation fosters short-termism, debt culture, and moral hazard within households.

Join Jeff Degner and other Mises faculty on November 1st for our first student-only event at Cornerstone University in Grand Rapids, Michigan. Find out more at Mises.org/Cornerstone25

• Inflation and the Family: Mises.org/HAP517a

The Mises Institute is giving away 100,000 copies of Hayek for the 21st Century. Get your free copy at Mises.org/HAPodFree