A Closer Look at the World’s Top and Bottom Laissez-Faire Countries

Looking closely at the Index of Economic Freedom, we can see where property rights help to boost market activity.

The AI People We Know

Thinking of a Microsoft patent, we can ask if we want AI people with specific personalities that can converse with us.

How Password Sharing Is Similar to (Airplane Seat) Recline Rage

Many of us share Netflix passwords. We think it is okay to recline in our airplane seat. And we would be horrified if someone casually took the groceries out of our cart at the checkout. All three situations are similar.…

The Mystery of the Artless Heist

When the ownership rights of a $3.1 million John Constable painting are unclear, no one can buy or sell, display, or conserve it.

The Pitch That’s An Airline Problem

When you think about shrinking airline seats, you could consider pitch and width, but really the problem is all about property rights.

The Economy Where Black is Banned

Like Turkmenistan and Zimbabwe, wherever property rights are unpredictable, we can assume that we have a command economy.

Why Meteorite Ownership Matters

While it can be tough to decide who owns a meteorite, in China and the U.S., those “intergalactic” property rights matter since they determine who profits.

Weekly Roundup: From the Diner’s Dilemma to Lost Labor

This week’s economic news summary includes the diner’s dilemma and marginal analysis, property rights in outer space, the Phillip’s Curve and unemployment.

It’s Time for Outer Space Lawyers

Now that the technology will soon exist to mine asteroids and profit from them, property rights in outer space have become a relevant legal issue.

Weekly Roundup: From Skyscraper Shadows to Trendy Foods

This week’s everyday economics includes property rights, trade, creative destruction, entitlements, tradeoffs, conservation, externalities, price, and markets.