Working Papers
A Network Approach to Geopolitics
Economics Working Paper 26127
October 16, 2026
Published: April 10, 2019
Civilization’s greatest achievements have not come from government bureaus, but from the ability of individuals to pursue their own interests. Free markets and free trade not only increase people’s productive activities but also improve economic conditions. Thus, free markets have the ability to harness self-interest in ways that benefit everyone.
Discussion Questions
- How does capitalism facilitate happiness?
- What has happened in other countries that tried to eliminate greed?
Additional Resources
- Listen as Russ Roberts talks to Milton Friedman about the radical ideas he put forward almost 50 years ago in Capitalism and Freedom. Available here.
- Read “The Case for Free Trade” by Milton Friedman, Rose D. Friedman, available here.
- Listen as Milton Friedman explains "greed," markets, and politics, available here.
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