Paul Krugman has little tolerance for sloppy economic thinking, no matter how well intended it may be. In a wonderfully coherent set of sharp and witty essays, Krugman tackles pundits from across the political spectrum, in the process enlightening us as to the workings of our national economy. Topics include, among others, international trade, globalization, monetary policy, and corporate downsizing. The writing here brilliantly combines the acerbic style and clever analysis that have made Krugman famous. Imagine declaring New York its own country and you get a better picture of our trade balance with China and Hong Kong. Try reducing the economy to the production of hot dogs and buns and you'll understand why common beliefs about the impact of production efficiency on labor demand are wrong. This is a collection that will amuse, enrage, and enlighten, in classic Paul Krugman style.