Freakonomics

[lehighguy]

I got it yesterday, only 2/3 through. Great book. For more info try:
http://www.amazon.com/exec/obidos/tg/detail/-/006073132X/qid=1118787937/sr=8-1/ref=pd_csp_1/002-9513561-3058411?v=glance&s=books&n=507846

[JackWhite]

I haven't read it yet, but I have heard a few interviews with one of the authors. The theory about legalized abortion reducing crime in the 90's is an interesting one.

In one interview the author was making a comparison between real estates agents and the KKK. I have to admit I did not understand the point he was making. If that is explained in detail in the book, I'd love an explaination.

[lehighguy]

They are not direct relationships, but rather examples of similair incentive scheme. Teachers and sumo wrestlers have incentives to cheat. Real estate agents and the KKK use asymetric information to gain power. McDonalds and crack gangs have the same org chart because of thier industry.

It's really hard to explain, but its a great book. He takes conventional wisdom and analyzes data to see if its true, and if its false tries to figure out the truth. Like a detective trying to solve a problem. If you don't want to pop for the cash read the first chapter in the bookstore or something before purchasing.