What exactly is a credit crunch? Why do footballers earn so much more than the rest of us? Which country is likely to be the world's leading economy in 10 years' time? & how does economics affect each one of us every day? In the seventh volume of the successful 50 Ideas series Daily Telegraph economics editor Edmund Conway introduces & explains the central ideas of economics in a series of 50 clear & concise essays. Beginning with an exploration of the basic theories such as Adam Smith's 'invisible hand' & concluding with the latest research into the links between wealth & happiness he sheds light on all the essential topics needed to understand booms & busts bulls & bears & the way the world really works. Packed with real-life examples "ations from key thinkers 50 Economics Ideas provides a fascinating overview of how economics influences every aspect of our lives from buying a house to what we had for breakfast this morning.