Having taken economics, I’m used to hearing different arguments for why differing policies work better. Each side can show you really convincing supply and demand curves that make a lot of sense, and you often end up not sure which side of the fence makes more sense economically.
However, Stuckler and Basu depart from just academic hypothesis in their book. They provide the reader with real-life examples and natural experiments throughout history to prove their points. The style of the book makes for a very reassuring read in the information and ideas presented. The authors do a great job in providing substance and evidence to field which, at other times, leaves us wanting to know more.
I also think that the usage of real life people throughout the chapter helps to add a more human element to the book. All to often, economics dehumanizes in an attempt to study the science of money. Reframing our perspective on economics, especially when it concerns healthcare, is very valuable.
Josh Setton
