What Do Economic Experts Believe? They Support Freedom.

A recent study of what economists think about some key issues shows a strong consensus on some key issues, pointing to support for personal freedom and the free market.

The piece in EconJournal Watch surveyed 136 economists on a range of issues.

For instance, more than 83% agree that "The U.S. should eliminate remaining tariffs and other barriers to trade." More than 73% disagree that "Employers in the U.S. should be required to provide health insurance to ALL their employees." Further, only 32% disagree with the statement that "The U.S. should place more stringent caps on medical malpractice awards."

There was also strong consensus (72.3%) that "A Wal-Mart store typically generates more benefits to society than costs."

The survey relied on participants sending a form back, so it is not scientific. But for those topics where there is a strong consensus it is a strong indication of what experts think about the best way to address some of the issues we face today.

And it is heartening that, for the most part, they support freedom.

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Read my regular blog on environmental policy at www.washingtonpolicyblog.org.