Economic Thinkers

February 12, 2018

Why Valentine’s Roses Bloom in Colombia

Most of our Valentine's roses come from Colombia because of the U.S. government, the perfect combination of land, labor and capital, and Walmart.

January 19, 2018

What The Last Supper Says About Food Portions

Looking at entrée, bread and plate sizes in versions of the Last Supper during the past millennium gives us some clues about portion size history.

January 16, 2018

Why the U.K. Wants a Latte Levy

Because the polyethylene in coffee cups prevents proper recycling, the British parliament is considering a latte levy to solve the problem.

January 2, 2018

The Easiest Way to Keep a New Year’s Resolution

Combining our "wants"and "shoulds" into temptation bundling, we wind up with a commitment device that helps us keep our New Year's resolutions.

December 21, 2017

Why We Give The Wrong Gifts

When we receive presents that disappoint us, gift giving creates deadweight loss that diminishes the economic boost from holiday spending.