Weekly roundup Saturday 26 July


The fog of democracy

Back to work in Canberra's winter


Weekly roundup of links to articles, reports, podcasts and other media on current political and economic issues in public policy.


Economics

How our incomes have moved over 45 years: The story of a squandered resources boom and declining productivity.

Trump's tariffs: They sort of make sense in a universe with different laws of economics.

Heretical thoughts: Crispin Hull puts up four sensible propositions that fail the pub test.

The demise of cash: But some must have cash, and tax evaders and other spivs have no intention of giving up cash.

The case for more effective environmental legislation: As made by a hard-nosed economist.

Politics

On government capability: Size doesn’t count, but performance does.

The case for minor electoral reform: We should enfranchise the least represented with the greatest stake in public policy.

Tasmania's election: The media missed its main issues, including the electorate’s contempt for bipartisan cowardice and its strong message about the need for an Australian head of state.

Public ideas

On Keynes: The world's public servant.

Populism: Is there such a thing as “good populism”?

Peace, love and harmony on the hill

Kumbaya.


If you have comments, corrections, or links to other relevant sources, I’d like to hear from you. Please send them to Ian McAuley — ian, at the domain name ianmcauley.com