NPR syndicates a show called “Marketplace” all over the country (and online, of course). I like to listen to the Morning Report while driving to work. The show does a great job of explaining current economic stories without a lot of technical explanations and acronyms.
I found a game on the Web site called “Budget Hero” which simulates the different factors that go into saving, or destroying, America’s national budget.
There’s some debate about whether the gameplay is faulty or based on incorrect premises. I definitely recommend you don’t “skip the briefing” before playing. Here are some illustrative comments from people who have played the game:
I am a Scottish citizen aged 13 and i can control America’s Budget better than the Bush White House. By M L, From Aberdeen, 07/25/2008
Interesting, but based on a flawed premise. Everone should read “Taxes For Revenue Are Obsolete” to get a look into the mindset of the Federal Reserve, which is neither federal (not a Gov’t. agency) nor a reserve … By Art Northrup, Jr., From NC, 06/18/2008
I wish the people, especially the local candidates, we will be voting for this fall would take this test. Then I’d have an clearer idea of their beliefs. By cj r, From FL, 06/13/2008
Have you played the game? How did you do? Do you agree that it’s flawed?
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1:19 pm (reply)
I love this game! I discovered it a couple weeks ago and I’ve played it a few times. I’ve managed to extend the budget to 2055, get the debt to 20% of GDP, and produce a $4 billion surplus. I agree it has flaws, but overall it’s an interesting look at what really matters to you and how small changes can affect the budget. I think every politician and potential President should have to play the game and announce their results. That would certainly be an eye-opener.
3:55 pm (reply)
It’s an interesting game, but it makes some rather broad assumptions. For example, lower taxes (somewhat surprisingly) haven’t been shown to give lower tax revenue.