This book was an enjoyable read. It is more a conglomeration of thesis(stories) on random subjects than a book about Economics. It is hard to tell if Levitt is genuine or not in his presentation of the material. He has a way of bringing you into his way of thinking on a subject unlike other authors.
The data seems infallible, however most of his conclusions are unpopular or unnoticed. He apparently was somewhat responsible for the firing of a number of teachers for changing answers on students tests to make it look like they were doing a better job as a teacher than they were. Did the data lie? It doesn't seem like it.
Did roe v. wade really play a huge role in the decline in crime from the late 80s to today? There is no smoking gun anywhere else to point to the marked decline, I see this as plausible, but not enough evidence to support his claims.
Due sumo wrestlers really cheat? according to the data, sometimes they do.
Why do drug dealers still live with their mothers? according to the data because they are broke, and for good reason based on the gang org chart.
Does the way you parent your child really make a difference in how they turn out? The data is surprising here to me. Not sure I buy it.
Does the name you give your child create a self fulfilling prophecy? Doomed to fail or destined for greatness, you decide.
Steven Levitt seems like someone I will try to watch in the future as he knows how to make economics interesting and potentially controversial. This actually makes for good entertainment and enlightenment at the same time. I look forward to reading Super Freakonomics some time soon.
Will you read this book again? Probably not, but I would recommend it to others.
Would you suggest this book be added to a personal library or leave at the public library? Public Library. It is entertaining, but not something I would likely come back to.
Reviewed By Mike W - Twin Cities, MN
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