SuperFreakonomics is a thought provoking sequel to Freaknomics. This book takes forward the core theme from the first book – People respond to incentives in myriad ways. Unlike other books on economics, SuperFreakonomics has no big concepts or frameworks. It does not conform strictly to a book on macro or micro economics.
Instead, the book – backed by empirical data – argues; how hard the economics drive prostitution, how seemingly innocuous TV shows had impact on the crime in America, why terrorists should buy life insurance, how much good do car seats do, why the simple solutions to global warming are being ignored and finally why most of us really are not that altruistic when donating. The book drives you think critically and explore the hidden side of simple life events. I will argue that it is a book for psychologists and not economists.
Perhaps none of the themes catch the attention of a mainstream economist. But we face most of the themes in our daily lives and the book will make us see these life events differently. That is what makes this an interesting read. For those who enjoyed Freakonomics (as I had), this will be a must read.