Dear Undercover Economist

"Dear Undercover Economist: The Very Best Letters From the Dear Economist Column" is a collection of letters and responses from Tim Harford's "Dear Economist" column in the Financial Times. Harford, a renowned economist and journalist, responds to readers' questions and conundrums using economic principles to provide creative and often entertaining solutions.

The book is divided into chapters based on different themes, such as love and relationships, work, and politics. Each chapter begins with an introduction by Harford that sets the stage for the types of questions readers can expect to see. For example, in the chapter on love and relationships, Harford explores questions like "How can I find the right person?" and "Is it ever okay to date a friend's ex?"

The letters themselves are often witty and clever, reflecting the intelligence and humor of Harford's readership. Some of the questions are quite practical, such as how to budget for a wedding, while others are more abstract, such as whether it's ethical to download music illegally. Regardless of the topic, Harford always manages to provide thoughtful and insightful answers that are grounded in economic theory but also accessible to non-economists.

One of the strengths of the book is its ability to illustrate the relevance of economics to everyday life. Harford's responses demonstrate how economic principles can be applied to a wide range of situations, from choosing a career path to deciding whether to buy or rent a home. In doing so, he shows readers how economic thinking can help them make more informed and rational decisions.

Another strength of the book is its accessibility. Harford's writing is clear and concise, and he explains economic concepts in a way that is easy to understand. This makes the book appealing to both economists and non-economists alike. In fact, even those who are not typically interested in economics may find themselves engaged by the book's practical and often humorous approach.

Overall, "Dear Undercover Economist" is a delightful and informative read. It showcases the value of economic thinking in solving real-world problems and provides readers with a new perspective on the world around them.