Good Economics for Hard Times

by Abhijit V. Banerjee and Esther Duflo
Good Economics for Hard Times cover
Good Books rating 3.9
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  • ID: 7095
  • Added: 2025-12-10
  • Updated: 2025-12-10
  • Reviews: 3
Reviews
LSE Review of Books · Sanjay Reddy · 2020-11-23
thought-provoking 4.00

The book provides better answers to our biggest problems but can be overly optimistic about the role of economics in solving them. It is a thought-provoking read that challenges conventional wisdom.

In 'Good Economics for Hard Times', Banerjee and Duflo offer a compelling and thoughtful examination of some of the most significant economic issues of our time. They challenge conventional wisdom and offer fresh perspectives on topics like trade, immigration, and economic inequality. However, while their analysis is often insightful, they sometimes seem overly optimistic about the ability of economic policies to address these complex issues. The book is a thought-provoking read that will leave readers with a lot to consider, even if it doesn't provide all the answers.

Quick quotes

    The book provides better answers to our biggest problems but can be overly optimistic about the role of economics in solving them.

    It is a thought-provoking read that challenges conventional wisdom.

    They offer fresh perspectives on topics like trade, immigration, and economic inequality.

Goodreads · Multiple Reviewers · 2019-11-12
persuasive 4.20

The book is praised for its originality and urgency, making a persuasive case for intelligent interventionism. It is a must-read for those interested in understanding the economic challenges of our time.

Goodreads reviewers have largely praised 'Good Economics for Hard Times' for its originality and urgency. They appreciate how the book makes a persuasive case for intelligent interventionism and a society built on more thoughtful economic policies. The book is seen as a must-read for those interested in understanding the economic challenges we face today. Reviewers highlight the book's ability to make complex economic concepts accessible and engaging. However, some readers note that the book can be dense and may require a bit of effort to fully grasp all the arguments presented.

Quick quotes

    Original, provocative, and urgent, the book makes a persuasive case for an intelligent interventionism.

    The book is a must-read for those interested in understanding the economic challenges of our time.

    It is seen as a must-read for those interested in understanding the economic challenges we face today.

The Guardian · Larry Elliott · 2019-11-11
enlightening 3.50

The book offers a grounded analysis of global issues but falls short in addressing the fundamental flaws of capitalism. It is both enlightening and somewhat limited in its scope.

This book by two Nobel laureates provides a refreshing and down-to-earth look at some of the most pressing economic issues of our time. They tackle topics like immigration, inequality, and automation with a blend of data and real-world examples, making complex economic concepts accessible to a broader audience. However, while the book is enlightening, it does not delve deeply into the systemic issues within capitalism, leaving some readers wanting more critical analysis. Overall, it's a valuable read for those interested in understanding the economic challenges we face today, but it may not satisfy those looking for a radical critique of the economic system.

Quick quotes

    The book offers a grounded analysis of global issues but falls short in addressing the fundamental flaws of capitalism.

    It is both enlightening and somewhat limited in its scope.

    The authors tackle topics like immigration, inequality, and automation with a blend of data and real-world examples.

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