Economic Freedom

At first glance, it might seem extreme—even offensive—to compare anti-fossil fuel climate policies to Stalin’s deliberate starvation of millions during the Holodomor. But in truth, the comparison may be unfair—to Stalin.

Frederic Bastiat understood better than most how free markets and market prices actually promote social harmony. And unlike most, he understood why Paris, which had little agricultural land, had plenty of food for its inhabitants.

The simple narrative today of the southern secession in 1860 and 1861 is that the southern states believed that the institution of slavery was being threatened, so they left the union. However, the real causes are more complex and do not fit any preconceived narrative.

Polish professor of political theory Łukasz Dominiak joins us to talk about how Poland embraced a market economy after the Cold War ended.  We discuss some of the factors behind Poland's rise from poverty. 

Despite arguments from President Trump and his supporters, there is no such thing as an “optimal” tariff. If anything, Americans have the upper hand in trade because they can run large trade deficits due to the status of the US dollar as the world‘s reserve currency.

Oh, I know, you aren’t really against free trade per se. You just demand a “level playing field.” Demanding a level playing field for international trade is a complete waste of time.

Free markets and free minds must push back against the mercantilist and populist policies associated with current Keynesians; we must draw upon the foundational ideas of economists such as Ludwig von Mises, Friedrich Hayek, Israel Kirzner, and Murray Rothbard.

Murray Rothbard believed that the right to engage in voluntary exchange has long been understood as a natural right, not just a good, practical idea. Tariffs and other trade barriers violate that right.

Trump has even dubbed himself “a Tariff Man.” This is nothing new, however, his frequent claims regarding the US economy during the Gilded Age need scrutiny.

Freedom in One Lesson is an extensive collection of Leonard Read's best, most powerful sustained arguments on behalf of liberty. Leonard Read's goal was to plant the seeds of liberty, so society and individuals could blossom to their fullest potential.