My Weekly Reading for July 13, 2025

I’ve been setting up my cottage in Canada and relaxing, which is why I haven’t posted this week. I’ll pick up the pace this coming week.

In the world of economics, there are always fascinating discussions and debates happening. One recent article that caught my attention is “The Young Rothbard: an Uncomfortable Neoclassical Economist” by Joseph T. Salerno, published on Mises.org on July 3, 2025. The article delves into the influences and mentors of Rothbard, shedding light on his academic journey and the relationships he forged with prominent economists such as Arthur Burns and Joseph Dorfman.

Rothbard’s interactions with these eminent economists, particularly his admiration for their work and their mutual respect, provide valuable insights into his intellectual development. The article highlights how Rothbard’s exposure to different schools of economic thought, including institutionalism and neoclassical economics, shaped his own perspectives and theories.

One interesting anecdote shared in the article is about Rothbard’s course on the philosophy of economics with Ernest Nagel, a leading proponent of logical positivism. Nagel’s criticisms of institutionalism resonated with Rothbard, leading to a deeper exploration of neoclassical economic theory. This experience not only influenced Rothbard’s own thinking but also garnered recognition from other renowned economists like Milton Friedman.

In addition to the insights on Rothbard’s academic journey, the article also touches on personal anecdotes, such as a heartwarming interaction between Joseph T. Salerno and Friedrich Hayek at a conference on Austrian economics. These personal stories add a human touch to the narrative, showcasing the camaraderie and respect within the economics community.

Moving on to more contemporary discussions, Timothy Taylor’s articles on AI and Latin America offer thought-provoking analyses of current economic trends. The potential impact of AI on productivity growth, as discussed in Taylor’s piece, raises important questions about the future of work and technological advancements. Similarly, the examination of Latin America’s economic history and challenges in achieving sustained growth provides valuable insights into regional development issues.

Finally, James MacGee and Joel Rodrigue’s research on the Canada-US GDP and labor productivity gaps sheds light on the underlying factors contributing to these disparities. The study’s findings on income distribution, selective emigration of high-ability workers, and innovation activities offer a comprehensive analysis of the economic dynamics between the two countries.

Overall, these articles and research papers offer a diverse range of topics and perspectives within the field of economics. From historical insights on influential economists like Rothbard to contemporary discussions on AI and regional economic challenges, the articles provide valuable insights and food for thought for economists and enthusiasts alike. As I continue to delve into these fascinating discussions and research findings, I look forward to sharing more insights and analyses in the coming weeks. One summer, while on my way to my cottage in northwestern Ontario, I made a stop in Winnipeg for an interview at local radio station CJOB to discuss economic issues of the day. The interviewer introduced me as someone who had moved from Canada to “the states” and wasted no time getting straight to the point. With an aggressive tone, he asked, “So why did you move? Was it the money?”

In that moment, I realized that my reasons for moving were complex and multifaceted, with money being just one aspect. However, I also knew that if I hesitated or tried to explain further, I might be accused of waffling or indecision. So, without missing a beat, I simply replied, “Yes.”

It was a brief and somewhat awkward exchange, but it highlighted the importance of thinking on your feet and being prepared for unexpected questions. Sometimes, a simple answer can suffice, even if it doesn’t fully encapsulate the complexities of a situation.

As I continued on my journey to my cottage, I reflected on the interview and the challenges of navigating such interactions. It was a reminder that communication is an art form, requiring both honesty and strategic thinking.

Fast forward to 2024, and I find myself sitting on the porch of my cottage, watching the sunset paint the sky in a myriad of colors. The tranquil beauty of the moment serves as a stark contrast to the fast-paced world of economic debates and radio interviews.

In the end, it’s moments like these that remind me of the importance of balance and perspective. Life is a tapestry of experiences, each thread contributing to the overall picture. And sometimes, a simple “yes” can speak volumes.