Outsmarting An Economist

Steven Landsburg is an acclaimed author and professor of economics who in this interview dares us to try to outsmart an economist? He wrote his new book, Can You Outsmart an Economist? to inspire and show readers how to do just that by expanding the way you think about decision making and problem-solving.

We discuss the “why” behind economics which he suggests is all about exploring the hidden why or motives behind our behaviours and decisions in daily life. He shares several puzzles from his book aimed to exercise our brain, using logic and problem-solving ability to view things from unique perspectives. It is an enjoyable and entertaining view through the lens of an economist – challenging us to think differently about the decisions we make and what we do.

Guest Bio

Steven Landsburg is a professor of economics at The University of Rochester.  He’s written for the Wall Street Journal, the New York Times, Forbes, Slate, and others of that ilk.  He blogs at TheBigQuestions.com.  His latest book is Can You Outsmart an Economist?: 100+ Puzzles to Train Your Brain“, from Houghton-Mifflin.

Topics of discussion 

• The logic of economics.
• Why Economics? The Hidden Why motives behind what we do.
• Irrationality vs. rationality.
• Training your brain to solve problems.
• Setting better goals.

Quick round questions

Do you have any routines and rituals that you believe contribute to your success?

Wake up every day and do what I want to do.

What advice would you give your 20-year-old self?

Spend less time trying to impress people and work more on understanding.

How would you define success? What does success look like to you? 

Finding something that you want to do and doing it.

What is one tool, skill, resource, or technique that has helped improve your effectiveness and/or productivity? 

Wanting to do something is very effective.

What advice would you give someone that needing/wanting to make a change in their life?

Give some heartful thought to what change you wish to make and don’t wait too long to make it.

If I would serve you your last meal what would you request?

M & M’s

What activity gives you the greatest sense of joy? 

Everything – fresh juice, working, talking to my students, etc.

If you could pick one book to pass down to your children or future generations what book would it be? 

Can You Outsmart an Economist?: 100+ Puzzles to Train Your Brain by Steven Landsburg

The Big Questions: Tackling the Problems of Philosophy with Ideas from Mathematics, Economics, and Physics by Steven Landsburg

What quote, phrase or message would you text or tweet to everyone in the world?

“Thinking is fun.”

Do we all have a Hidden Why, a purpose?

No – we make our own purpose in life.

What does living with passion and purpose mean?

Getting out of bed and doing what I wish to do every day.

What do you believe is the underlying motivation behind everything you do? 

Wanting to have fun.

Connect with Steve. 

Big Questions blog and webstie here.

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