Learn With Elaine: Impulse Buying

Staying at home during the pandemic, we have shifted our impulse buying from the supermarket to our online shopping cart.

Where Mount Everest Economics Take Us

Whether looking at its newfound height, the traffic jams, or the role of Nepal, Mount Everest always takes us to the margin.

The Sticky Side of Sports Viewership

Although everyone expected a spike in sports viewership when games resumed, they were surprised by the fans’ response.

Why a Free Race Like the Tour de France is Really Expensive

Although spectators watch the Tour de France for free along its route, the race is able to generate huge revenue for its owners.

Why a Paper Towel Is Like a Toyota

Pre-coronavirus manufacturing efficiencies were beneficial until a pandemic spike in demand led to paper towel shortages.

Why Water Is a Worry

Looking at Cape Town, South Africa and 12 U.S. cities we can see why the basic water tradeoff involves a choice between conservation and affordability.

How to Minimize (Airplane) Middle Seat Misery

Although airplane middle seat misery appears only to affect its occupant, widening that seat will be felt felt far beyond the people who sit there.

What Iowa Could Have Learned From La La Land

Seemingly different, for the same reasons, we’ve had partial nuclear plant meltdowns, financial meltdowns, and a meltdown in Iowa during their caucus.

Why a Lifetime Pasta Pass is About More Than Spaghetti

The unlimited pasta that Olive Garden’s Never Ending Pasta Pass winners consume reflects a massive change in marginal utility.

The Surprising “Green” Side of the SUV

Based on a recent study, calculating the amount of air pollution we can blame on SUV emissions has just become a bit trickier.