Because “I Voted” stickers indicate voting is a social norm, like paying taxes or saving electricity, people are more likely to act like their neighbors.
Microeconomics
Four Ways to Understand Marijuana Demand
With an increasing number of states legalizing marijuana, demand is shifting because of changes in utility, complementary products and the number of buyers.
The Benefits of Perpetual Federal Debt
Very long term federal debt that has no date for redemption like UK First World War bonds and U.S. Revolutionary War debt depend on good public credit.
Is Ebola Threatening the Price of Chocolate?
While Ebola fear caused raw cocoa futures prices to rise in September, its long term rise has been because of more demand from developing nations.
The Reason Norway Said No to the Olympics
Because host countries for the Olympics and World Cup spend too much on new stadiums, their subsequent return on investment (ROI) is usually inadequate.
An Economist’s Definition of Misery
While a misery index shows a nation’s inflation and unemployment rates, the eurozone’s high unemployment might create disproportionate unhappiness.
You’ll Need a License for That
With the Supreme Court deciding if North Carolina’s dentists can exclusively whiten teeth, the pros and cons of occupational licenses are being debated.
Why There is Less Marriage
New attitudes that value marriage less and new economics through which women have more pay and education and men work less have changed marriage markets.
The Best Places For Growing Old
With populations growing older in the developed world, their wellbeing might affect the GDP growth rate because of the expense of their care.
The Unexpected Consequences of More Efficient Lighting
Like 19th century English coal, more efficient and cheap LED lights can mean people and businesses use it more because of the lower opportunity cost.