What Economists Think...

The American Economic Association released a new survey of attitudes of its members toward varying economic issues. The results show high agreement on some questions, and disagreement on others. The first question asks whether the US should eliminate all tariffs and barriers to trade. 83% of economists agree, while 10% disagree. Well...just a couple of weeks ago Obama approved legislation to increase punitive tariffs on Chinese exports. Looks like someone has selective listening when it comes to his economists' expert advice....

I wish, too, that that the survey would have solicited economists their views on gay marriage, i.e. does gay marriage generates more benefits than costs to society? It would be beneficial to see what the members of the AEA think about this highly relevant topic today. I mean, come on, the survey prompts the economists with a question about Wal-Mart and claims that this is an issue of topical relevance today. Seriously? Wal-Mart controversy is so dated.

Gay Marriage in Vermont

Gay marriages start.....today, September 1st, 2009! It adds to the growing list of New England states that have taken the intrepid step of legalizing gay marriage....plus incontiguous pastoral Iowa. I'm curious to see how the institution of gay marriage in Vermont will affect the state socially, politically, and most interestingly, economically. Anticipate a report from the Williams Institute in about six months or so!