Includes index

Let the trading begin: 400 B.C.E. -- 1770 C.E. -- The age of reason: 1770-1820 -- Industrial and ecomonic revolutions: 1820-1929 -- War and depression: 1929-1945 -- Post-war economics: 1954-1970 -- Contempary economics: 1970-present

What happens in a recession? How does money work? Why do we pay taxes? Economics affects every aspect of our lives, from how we get to work to where we spend our money--and big economic ideas continue to shape the world. Written in plain English, The Economics Book is packed with short, pithy explanations that cut through the jargon, step-by-step diagrams that untangle knotty theories, classic quotes that economics memorable, and witty illustrations that enhance and play with our understanding of economics. Whether you're a beginner, an avid student, or an armchair expert, you'll find plenty to stimulate you within this book.--Book cover

Previously published as the First American edition in 2012

"Big ideas simply explained"--Cover