Person
Every book Doug Irwin recommended on podcasts
Doug Irwin appeared on EconTalk to discuss the economics of tariffs and trade. During the episode, Irwin recommended the book Janesville by Amy Goldstein, a work by a Washington Post journalist that explores the social consequences and community impact resulting from the closure of a General Motors plant in Janesville, Wisconsin. In addition to recommending Goldstein's social history, Irwin discussed reading and praising Adam Smith's classic text, The Wealth of Nations, noting that he consistently learns new insights every time he pulls the volume down from his bookshelf. Through these discussions, Irwin utilized both contemporary journalism and foundational economic literature to illustrate the real-world effects of economic shifts and the enduring value of classical economic theory.
Books recommended by Doug Irwin
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Janesville
Janesville by Amy Goldstein is a compelling work of investigative journalism that explores the devastating social and economic consequences of a major factory closure in an American industrial town.
Recommended“There is a very good book by a Washington Post journalist called Jainsville. It's about Jamesville, Ohio, Wisconsin, where a GM plant closes down...”
Where to get it
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The Wealth of Nations
The Wealth of Nations by Adam Smith is a foundational 1776 text in economics that explores the nature and causes of the wealth of nations, famously introducing concepts like the division of labor and the invisible hand of the free market.
Discussed“Every time I pull the book down from my shelf, The Wealth of Nations, I learn something again.”
Where to get it
Appearances
| Episode | Podcast | Date | Books |
|---|---|---|---|
| The Economics of Tariffs and Trade (with Doug Irwin) | EconTalk | 2025-05-05 | 2 |

