An interesting and decent enough intro to the subject for someone who knows nothing about economics. Surprisingly broad! ( )

Dasgupta presents economics from the point of view of both rich and poor countries, their communities, their markets, their governments, and the civic attitudes of their people. It's about all the institutions that make up a society, and how economic thinking can help us understand problems like unrest, malnutrition, inequality, and the climate crisis.
I learned useful terms, understood much, and realized there was much more I needed to know.
A very useful book. ( )

I enjoyed parts of this book, found others long winded and unnecessary, and was occasionally surprised, sometimes pleasantly, by its choice of material. But then, I have a degree in economics, a Masters in economic history, and work as an economist professionally. If I was coming to the subject cold and wanted a book to give me an idea of what it is that economists do, I don't think this would help much. It might, in fact, be of more use for someone progressing from standard introductory micro and macro classes to intermediate stuff or even post-graduate study as it does a reasonable job of showing where the frontiers of the discipline currently are. That is not, however, what you'd be looking for from a book in this series. ( )

I found this to be a nice, accessible introduction. Dasgupta takes a fairly holistic approach and is willing to discuss topics that many of the more ideological pop econ writers try to sweep under the rug. ( )

One of the better short introductions. Using a modern lens which accounts for issues of trust, disparity, and sustainable development, as well as the classic concepts of rationality, game theory, institutions, and governance. Written by Dasgupta in a very approachable and thoughtful (and thought-provoking) manner. ( )