20–1765
The author of this “introduction to the study of economics and sociology” realizes that economics is not a science in which the problems discussed can be proved mathematically; that it fairly bristles with controverted points; that the student is apt to approach it with preconceptions and class or interest bias. The object of the book is to help the student to look upon both sides of a question and to come to independent conclusions on such problems of everyday life as prices and markets, taxation, banking, tariff, wages, rent, transportation, and ownership of property. The book falls into three parts: Outline of industrial and social evolution; Fundamental economic concepts; Economic problems. Some of the more specific subjects discussed are: Getting a living under various conditions; Wants and value; Direction of the world’s workers; Wealth and income; Competition and monopoly; Money and banking; Railway transportation; Labor organizations; Labor legislation; Agricultural economics; Taxation; Industrial unrest; Social and industrial betterment. There is an index.
“The simplicity and clarity of treatment together with thought-stimulating topics for discussion make this a good textbook for the beginner in economics in junior or senior high school.”
+ Booklist 17:10 O ’20
“The style of the book is simple enough to justify its introduction into the upper years of the elementary school. The material is of so vital a type that it deserves recognition in all schools. Where the special problem is that of preparing children for trades this book will serve to give a broader view of the individual’s place in industry.”
+ El School J 20:548 Mr ’20 350w
“The author of this book has done more than simply produce another book on elementary economics for use in high schools. He has in reality broken away from the traditional discussion of consumption, production, exchange, and distribution, and organized his discussion in quite a different manner from that followed by traditional texts in the field. There are no lists of reference books. This seems unfortunate since the book itself does not contain enough material for even a half-year course in the subject.”
+ − School R 28:313 Ap ’20 260w
“A text that is sure to find ready reception for courses in economics, especially in secondary schools. As a basis for fruitful class discussion it should prove very effective in the hands of a competent instructor.” E. R. Burton