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Politicians as Economists

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Presidents, senators and members of congress come from a variety of different backgrounds but all must decide upon a great many issues that involve macroeconomics. Do you think politicians understand macroeconomics? As a related question, do you think politicians act in the best economic interests of the country or do they make decisions based on other considerations? Give an example to illustrate your answer.

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Solution Summary

Politicians as economists are examined. The expert determines if they think politicians understand macroeconomics.

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This issue can be best answered by looking at the educational background of US politicians. Another is by analyzing their accomplishments in terms of legislation they passed with economic significance.

As a starter, consider the following information:
- Republican Congressman Mo Brooks graduated from Duke University in three years with a double major in political science and economics, with highest honors in economics (Schneider, 2011).
- James M. Inhofe graduated from the University of Tulsa with a degree in economics (Inhofe website).
- Despite of ...

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