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August 18, 2005

Freakonomics - Book Review

I was a bit late in getting my hands on Freakonomics : A Rogue Economist Explores the Hidden Side of Everything. I've wanted to read it since before it was released, but until recently, I didn't have the time to dig into it. As I neared the end of Return of the King, I knew exactly what I wanted to read next. Since my current position left me a lot of free time between scheduled appointments, I got a copy and devoured it between calls.

Devoured is exactly what I did, too. Freakonomics was quite an enjoyable read, covering a wide variety of topics. Notable high points include the fight against the KKK, and how the Superman animated TV show may have dealt the deadliest blow against the organization. I also enjoyed the analysis of the crack-dealing street gang and its business model. The chapter comparing corruption among public school teachers and sumo wrestlers had me chomping at the bit for more.

Steven Levitt and Stephen Drubner have done a great job of presenting economic data in easily readable anecdotes. The fact that the book has no focal point to work from, except in that it is an economics book about strange topics, was a plus. I also enjoyed that the information was presented by an economist with no visible ideological axe to grind.

Now, I'll pass the book to the wife. Once she's done, I can think of a few others who might enjoy reading Freakonomics. I know I did.

Posted by Lockjaw at August 18, 2005 12:48 PM

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