Free to Choose: A Personal Statement

Milton Friedman

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Milton Friedman's 'Free to Choose: A Personal Statement' presents a compelling argument for maximizing free choice within societal limits. The book delves into various topics such as the benefits of free markets, the role of government in regulating natural monopolies, and the importance of individual freedom in economic growth. Friedman's writing style is clear, rational, and thought-provoking, making complex economic theories accessible to non-economists. Drawing on historical examples and data, the book advocates for free trade, limited government intervention, and the promotion of individual liberties.

Writing/Prose:

The writing style is accessible and straightforward, aimed at a general audience, featuring clear argumentation structured to be easily understood.

Plot/Storyline:

The plot revolves around the principles of free markets and self-interest, exploring the beneficial impact they have on society while contrasting them with outcomes from central planning.

Setting:

The setting includes the economic landscape of the 1970s, providing context for the PBS series and relevant historical and global economic issues.

Pacing:

The pacing is moderate and thoughtful, with well-organized chapters that encourage contemplation of complex ideas.

Every day each of us uses innumerable goods and services—to eat, to wear, to shelter us from the elements, or simply to enjoy. We take it for granted that they will be available when we want to buy th...

Genres:

nonfiction

economics

political philosophy

Topics:

capitalism

leftism vs rightism

government regulation

Notes:

The book argues that self-interest does not equate to greed.

Friedman presents a specific role for government in regulating monopolies and enforcing contracts.

He explains that free markets can benefit the commonwealth more than central planning.

Countries like China and Vietnam lifted millions out of poverty by embracing free markets.

Friedman claims free trade is crucial for helping the world's poor.

He draws attention to the absurdity of subsidies that favor wealthy countries over impoverished farmers.

The book is intended for non-economists and was accompanied by a PBS series.

It emphasizes the need for maximizing freedom while preventing harm to others.

Readers are encouraged to teach their children the principles learned from the book early on.

Friedman criticized government programs that benefit entrenched interests rather than the public.

From The Publisher:

INTERNATIONAL BESTSELLER

A powerful and persuasive discussion about economics, freedom, and the relationship between the two, from today's brightest economist.

In this classic discussion, Milton and Rose Friedman explain how our freedom has been eroded and our affluence undermined through the explosion of laws, regulations, agencies, and spending in Washington. This important analysis reveals what has gone wrong in America in the past and what is necessary for our economic health to flourish.

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About the Author:

MILTON FRIEDMAN (1912-2006), Nobel laureate economist and former presidential adviser, was the author of a number of books, including Capitalism and Freedom and Tyranny of the Status Quo, also written with his wife, Rose Friedman (1910-2009).

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