In 'Freakonomics,' Steven D. Levitt and Stephen J. Dubner explore the hidden side of everything, revealing the surprising truths behind human behavior and decision-making. Through a series of intriguing case studies, they uncover the economic forces that shape our lives in ways we never expected. What do schoolteachers and sumo wrestlers have in common? How do incentives drive the behavior of people in powerful positions? Prepare to challenge your assumptions and see the world through a lens of data and unconventional thinking.
By Steven D. Levitt, Stephen J. Dubner
Published: 2009
"Incentives are the cornerstone of modern life: Who gets what, when, and how are often driven by the underlying motivations that we don’t pay attention to."
Which is more dangerous, a gun or a swimming pool? What do schoolteachers and sumo wrestlers have in common? How much do parents really matter? These may not sound like typical questions for an economist to ask. But Steven D. Levitt is not a typical economist. He studies the riddles of everyday life—from cheating and crime to parenting and sports—and reaches conclusions that turn conventional wisdom on its head. Freakonomics is a groundbreaking collaboration between Levitt and Stephen J. Dubner, an award-winning author and journalist. They set out to explore the inner workings of a crack gang, the truth about real estate agents, the secrets of the Ku Klux Klan, and much more. Through forceful storytelling and wry insight, they show that economics is, at root, the study of incentives—how people get what they want or need, especially when other people want or need the same thing.
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“Incentives are the cornerstone of modern life: Who gets what, when, and how are often driven by the underlying motivations that we don’t pay attention to.”
Freakonomics
By Steven D. Levitt, Stephen J. Dubner
Discover a world of knowledge through our extensive collection of book summaries.
Steven D. Levitt is an acclaimed American economist and co-author of the best-selling book 'Freakonomics: A Rogue Economist Explores the Hidden Side of Everything'. Renowned for his ability to apply economic theory to diverse aspects of everyday life, Levitt's writing style is characterized by its engaging narrative and accessible explanations of complex ideas. He has also penned 'SuperFreakonomics' and 'Think Like a Freak', further establishing himself as a thought leader in the intersection of economics and popular culture. Levitt's work encourages readers to look beyond conventional wisdom and explore the surprising motivations behind human behavior.
Stephen J. Dubner is an acclaimed author, journalist, and radio host, best known for co-authoring the bestselling Freakonomics series with economist Steven Levitt. His notable works include 'Freakonomics: A Rogue Economist Explores the Hidden Side of Everything,' 'SuperFreakonomics,' and 'When to Rob a Bank: And 131 More Warped Suggestions and Well-Intended Rants.' Dubner's writing style is characterized by its engaging narrative, witty humor, and an ability to simplify complex economic and social concepts for a general audience. In addition to his literature, he is a co-host of the popular Freakonomics Radio podcast, where he explores the intersection of economics and everyday life.
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