The Undercover Economist. Book Summary

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Tim Harford

What’s inside

The Undercover Economist by Tim Harford offers an engaging journey into the economic principles that shape our world. Harford uses everyday scenarios, such as buying a car or visiting a supermarket, to explain complex economic theories in an accessible manner. The book demystifies the hidden world behind everyday transactions and market phenomena, exploring topics like scarcity, market power, efficiency, and globalization.

You’ll Learn

  • Understanding fundamental economic principles through real-world examples
  • Gaining insights into how markets operate and affect our daily lives
  • Improving decision-making skills by understanding the economics behind consumer choices
  • Enhancing knowledge on the interplay between economics and policy-making

Key Points

  • The Power of Scarcity: How Limited Resources Affect Choices
  • The World of Truths Hidden Behind Prices
  • Market Forces and the Illusion of Choice
  • Globalization and Its Impact on Local and Global Markets
  • Asymmetric Information and the Market for Lemons
  • How Incentives Shape Our Behavior
  • Economic Policy and Its Unintended Consequences

Who’s it For

  • Economics enthusiasts
  • Students
  • Business professionals
  • Policy makers
  • General readers interested in economics

About the author

Tim Harford is an English economist, journalist, and broadcaster. He is best known for his work as a columnist at the Financial Times and as the presenter of BBC Radio 4’s ‘More or Less’. Harford’s writings are renowned for their unique blend of storytelling and economic insight.