The two historical debates studied here are concerned with the impact of technological change on unemployment and on the economy generally. The topic is of enduring interest among both economists and the public at large. The history of these 20th century debates has not previously been studied in detail, and the book provides valuable insight into the evolution of the understanding of a fundamental issue in the economy. By providing insight into idea evolution and economic methodology, the book is a valuable description of the ways in which economists work and react to each other.

From the price of a candy bar to the price of a house, Woirol's book demystifies prices and markets. Why do we use them, how do they work, and what can we do to make them work for us? Some of the prices we come across every day cause us few problems, while others seem mysterious, frustrating, and even unfair. In this refreshing and entertaining approach to the "dismal science," Greg Woirol shows how we, uniquely among living creatures, use markets and prices to help organize our lives. Ranging from the price of diamonds, to cell phone plans, high fashion, scalped tickets, Christmas gifts, and much more, chapters in Demystifying Economic Markets and Prices build on one another to explain hidden structural and behavioral patterns. Woirol brings clarity to the arcane world of economics, allowing readers to see patterns and meaning in a wide range of everyday prices and markets. Along the way, the author gives advice about how best to address the issues and opportunities that markets create for consumers.