The chapter delves into the concepts of marginalism, marginal utility, and subjective value in economics, tracing back to influential economists like Ballerat, Menger, and Marshall. It discusses how individuals make choices at the margin, emphasizing the role of scarcity and subjective evaluations in determining the value of goods like water and diamonds. The conversation also highlights the Austrian perspective on supply and demand dynamics, the importance of subjective value in economic analysis, and the unique approach of Austrian economists towards understanding market phenomena.
Pete Boettke, of George Mason University, talks with EconTalk host Russ Roberts about the origins and tenets of Austrian economics. This is a wonderful introduction to how the so-called Austrian economists look at the world and how they continue to influence economics today.