The Darwin Economy: Liberty, Competition, and the Common Good

by Robert Frank
The Darwin Economy: Liberty, Competition, and the Common Good cover
Good Books rating 3.5
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  • ID: 6320
  • Added: 2025-11-11
  • Updated: 2025-11-11
  • Reviews: 2
Reviews
goodreads.com · Unknown · 2025-11-17
thought-provoking 3.50

The book provides a compelling argument for the application of Darwin's principles to economics, but it may be too technical for some readers. It offers a unique perspective on competition and the common good, though the writing style can be dense.

The Darwin Economy: Liberty, Competition, and the Common Good presents a fascinating exploration of how Darwinian principles can be applied to economic theory. The author argues persuasively that competition, when properly understood, can lead to the common good. However, the book's dense writing style and technical language may make it challenging for some readers. The insights offered are valuable, but they require a significant investment of time and effort to fully appreciate. Overall, the book is a thought-provoking read that offers a fresh perspective on economic theory, though it may not be accessible to all audiences.

Quick quotes

    The book offers a unique perspective on competition and the common good.

    It may be too technical for some readers.

    The insights offered are valuable, but they require a significant investment of time and effort to fully appreciate.

cepr.org · Unknown · 2022-05-18
thought-provoking 3.50

The Darwin Economy challenges libertarian ideas by exploring the concept of positional goods and the limitations of the invisible hand. The book argues that well-regulated outcomes can be better than those driven solely by competition.

The Darwin Economy presents a thought-provoking argument against libertarian economic principles. The book delves into the concept of positional goods, which are only valuable in relation to what others have. This idea challenges the traditional notion of the invisible hand, suggesting that unregulated markets can lead to poorer outcomes. The author, Robert H. Frank, uses logical arguments and examples to illustrate how well-regulated outcomes can be more beneficial. The book is structured as a logical argument, making it an intellectual page-turner for those interested in economic theory. It is a concise yet profound exploration of the pitfalls of libertarianism and the potential benefits of regulation.

Quick quotes

    The difficult question is how to eliminate wasteful government spending without inflicting even more costly collateral damage.

    The book is structured as a logical argument about positional goods--those things that are only beneficial relative to what others have.

    The Darwin Economy is an intellectual page-turner.

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