Interesting Questions in Freakonomics

Author: DiNardo, John

Source: Journal of Economic Literature, Volume 45, Number 4, December 2007 , pp. 973-1000(28)

Publisher: American Economic Association

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Abstract:

Freakonomics is more about "entertainment" than it is a serious attempt at popularization. Consequently, rather than conduct a comprehensive fact check, I use the book as a springboard for a broader inquiry into social science research and take issue with the book's surprising premise that "Economics is a science with excellent tools for gaining answers but a serious shortage of interesting questions." Using examples from Freakonomics, I argue that some of the questions the book addresses are "uninteresting" because it is impossible to even imagine what a good answer would look like. I conclude with some thoughts about the role of economic theory in generating interesting questions and/or answers.

Document Type: Research article

DOI: http://dx.doi.org/10.1257/002205107783216547

Publication date: 2007-12-01

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The Journal of Economic Literature (JEL) began publication in 1969 under the auspices of the American Economic Association with quarterly issues appearing in March, June, September, and December. JEL contains survey and review articles, book reviews, an annotated bibliography of newly published books, and a list of current dissertations in North American universities.
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