Economics: A User's Guide

[@raghavsharma1477]

A really good, insightful, interesting talk by Prof. Chang. If the basics and foundations of all the subjects are taught in this manner then we can definitely realize a society of 'active citizens' which are absolutely necessary for a true democracy and not remain a society of 'passive consumers'.

[@aardjazz]

this guy is my favourite economics commentator by a country mile

[@21dolphin123]

One of the most farsighted economists in the world today. Economics is inevitably political and effects what we call democracy. What is the point of our democracy anyway. All economic theories have relevance there not mutually exclusive.

[@aardjazz]

great first question.... or statement maybe :)

[@ResetToZero3210]

Economics is the “science” of the possible. Politics is the “science” of the impossible.

[@abcrane]

The main problem in all economies, all systems, all peoples, is people do not know what to do with themselves, in work and in leisure. confused in love, in purpose, in diet, in entertainment, in childcare, in marriage, in education, in nature. a world of traumatized addicts. the problem then, does not begin with how to spend money, but time!

[@GregoryWonderwheel]

How condescending can you be? People know what they want to do with their time when they aren't being told by the powers that be what they need to do.

[@abcrane]

@@GregoryWonderwheel If people knew how, in what manner, they wanted to spend their time, and spent it as such, the following social facts would not be so pervasive: 1. the need for such a large expenditure in advertising to convince consumers of the toxic consumer excess they today indulge in, for if they knew that they wanted such a lifestyle, advertising would not have to be so manipulative 2. the level of psyche drugs prescribed to these people would not be so high 3. steadily increasing levels of teen suicide (America) seemingly connected to spikes in social media obsession 4. high rates of domestic abuse and personality disorders. Now, if people truly wanted the lifestyle that they indulge in (as shaped by consumer media), this would not result in points 2 and 3. of course, this is referring to status quo lifestyle, it leaves out subcultures who are doing what they want, as well, but engage in activities that do NOT produce the pathological symptoms. my intention was not to condescend, but to point out a social condition that I witness.you mention "being told by the powers that be." In a sense, you confirmed my observations. assuming that you meant the powers of coercive advertising and restrictive governments. in essence, we are then in agreement. I know many people who 1. know what they want, but are disappointing and/or injured by the things that they strive for and 2 know what they want, and are empowered by the things that they strive for. in most cases, the first group are often seeking baseless entertainment and in the second, engagement in higher learning, proactive social change, and holistic hobbies (gardening, art, writing, conducting music, etc.) I am only making an observation as to what I see. I see a lot of destruction and mayhem, but also much authentic living as well. I am afraid the former is winning out, but I do see a renaissance in some circles returning to grand traditions of philosophy and the arts, sustainable consumer lifestyle. perhaps you misread my "concerned tone" for condescension. but this is a casualty of my intense focus on innovating and launching new models of education, entertainment, and economy. I fear that a cancel culture is limiting the passion and brute honesty necessary for social change.

[@nusratzahra5828]

You really cant quote liberation theology and then be a zionist.