by Timothy Taylor

Updated August, 2008, Version 2.0 by Timothy Taylor (Managing Editor,The Journal of Economic Perspectives; Macalester College). 560 pages. An introductory economics textbook for the first decade of the 21st century needs to create strong connections between the basic concepts of the course and the economic subjects of high interest to students. Tim Taylor’s series of economics textbooks (Principles, Micro and Macro) written for The Freeload Press do just that. The fundamental tools and terms of introductory economics are covered with a combination of careful step-by-step explanations and lively examples, drawing on the author’s experience as an award-winning teacher. The examples and structure throughout these books also draw out some issues on the radar screens of many students. For example, Taylor integrates international examples and analysis throughout these texts, rather than following the outdated tradition of segregating this material in the last chapter or two of the book. Taylor presents a number of real-world examples, in business, and public policy. He also spotlights basic economic terms in the news like growth, inflation, unemployment, budget deficits, the balance of trade, and the Federal Reserve. Taylor’s books provide the solid grounding in economic analysis that will introduce students to the subject and prepare some of them for future courses in economics, while also providing the core economic literacy that students want and need. (Chapters 7-20 are part of Principles of Microeconomics, free e-textbook.)

Book Information / Sample Chapter(s) (PDF)