Freakonomics
by Stephen Dubner and Steven Levitt

Freakonomics is an interesting blend of sociology and economics creating an entertaining study of cause and effect in everyday life.   The non-traditional application of economic theory and the relevance to what we see and hear on a daily basis encourages us to look at life in a new way.  The authors examine relationships such as how having a lot of books in the house has a positive influence on children's test scores, but reading to a child a lot has no effect.   Highly educated parents are also a plus, while limiting children's television time is irrelevant.  The interesting look at the drug dealing trade and McDonald’s shows the similarities in the organizational structure and how benefits accrue to those at the top of the pyramid.  While not all of their assertions are provable, they do challenge the reader to question traditional thinking.

Overall, the  book is a light and interesting read.

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