What are the best economics textbooks for your level of study?

1 Principles of Economics

If you are new to economics or need a refresher, you should start with a book that covers the core concepts and principles of the discipline. One of the most widely used and recommended books is Principles of Economics by N. Gregory Mankiw, a Harvard professor and former adviser to the US president. This book explains the key ideas and tools of economics in a clear, engaging, and accessible way, using real-world examples and applications. It also covers topics such as international trade, environmental policy, and behavioral economics that are relevant for today's world.

2 Intermediate Economics

If you have some background in economics and want to deepen your understanding and skills, you should look for a book that builds on the basic principles and introduces more advanced models and methods. One of the most comprehensive and rigorous books is Intermediate Economics by Hal Varian, a Berkeley professor and chief economist at Google. This book covers microeconomics and macroeconomics in detail, using mathematical and graphical analysis, and showing how they can be applied to various problems and scenarios. It also includes exercises, data sets, and online resources that can help you practice and learn.

3 Advanced Economics

If you are pursuing a degree or a career in economics and want to master the most complex and cutting-edge topics and techniques, you should seek a book that offers a thorough and in-depth treatment of the subject. One of the most authoritative and respected books is Advanced Economics by David Romer, another Berkeley professor and former adviser to the US president. This book focuses on macroeconomics and covers topics such as growth, fluctuations, expectations, policy, and open economy in a rigorous and sophisticated way, using mathematical and empirical methods. It also reviews the latest research and debates in the field and provides references for further reading.

4 Applied Economics

If you are interested in how economics can be used to analyze and solve real-world issues and challenges, you should consider a book that demonstrates the relevance and usefulness of the discipline. One of the most popular and influential books is Applied Economics by Thomas Sowell, a Stanford scholar and a renowned public intellectual. This book shows how economic principles and logic can help explain and evaluate various phenomena and policies, such as discrimination, immigration, health care, education, and crime. It also challenges some of the common myths and misconceptions about economics and society.

5 Behavioral Economics

If you are curious about how psychology and human behavior affect economic decisions and outcomes, you should explore a book that introduces the emerging and exciting field of behavioral economics. One of the most accessible and entertaining books is Nudge by Richard Thaler and Cass Sunstein, two Nobel laureates and former advisers to the US president. This book explains how people often deviate from rationality and how they can be influenced by subtle changes in the environment and the presentation of choices. It also suggests how policymakers and individuals can use nudges to improve welfare and well-being.

6 History of Economics

If you want to learn more about the origins and evolution of economic thought and ideas, you should read a book that traces the history of economics and its impact on society. One of the most comprehensive and engaging books is The Worldly Philosophers by Robert Heilbroner, a New York professor and a best-selling author. This book tells the stories and insights of the great economists, from Adam Smith to John Maynard Keynes, and how they shaped the world we live in. It also shows how economics reflects the values and visions of different times and cultures.

7 Here’s what else to consider

This is a space to share examples, stories, or insights that don’t fit into any of the previous sections. What else would you like to add?