An Introduction to Austrian School Economics - Godfrey Bloom
Feb 24, 2023
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Godfrey Bloom, a spirited speaker known for his outspoken views on economics, delves into the tenets of Austrian School Economics. He humorously critiques taxation while championing financial independence. Bloom discusses the downsides of state welfare, advocating for private solutions instead. His insights on political corruption reveal how wealth and integrity intertwine in government roles. He further critiques fiat currency and inflation, urging a return to gold standards, and highlights the pitfalls of modern banking practices.
Austrian school economics emphasizes the importance of common sense in addressing economic issues, often challenging established political norms and government interventions.
The decline in currency value is linked to the abandonment of the gold standard, with a return to sound money principles being essential for economic stability.
Deep dives
The Misunderstanding of Austrian School Economics
Austrian school economics is often misunderstood and dismissed in casual conversations, with many associating it inaccurately with Austria. Despite its reputation, this school of thought is fundamentally about applying common sense to economic issues. The perception problem arises partly because the principles challenge the status quo, as they are often perceived as threatening to established political systems. This disdain for common sense in public discourse underscores why Austrian economics is underappreciated and frequently relegated to the sidelines.
Critique of Government's Economic Role
The podcast emphasizes that many current societal problems can be traced back to government intervention and policies. The argument posits that politicians and bureaucrats exacerbate economic issues rather than alleviate them, suggesting that a notable portion of tax burdens provides little in terms of value or service to citizens. An example discussed involves the discontent experienced by taxpayers who see a significant share of their income consumed by taxes without receiving commensurate services in return. Thus, reducing the size of the government and its economic influence is proposed as a crucial step in improving the lives of ordinary citizens.
The Wealth Creation vs. Consumption Dichotomy
The distinction between wealth creators and wealth consumers is highlighted, with the former representing individuals or businesses that generate economic value, while the latter consists of those reliant on public funding. Personal anecdotes illustrate the heavy financial burdens placed on wealth creators through various taxes, such as property tax and VAT, which ultimately stifle economic growth. The narrative suggests that a system allowing for individuals to opt out from the government's financial grasp would dramatically alter their economic situation for the better. This exemption model presents a vision where individuals retain more of their earnings, thereby enhancing overall economic vitality.
The Flaws of Modern Monetary Systems
The podcast discusses the deterioration of currency value, linking it to the abandonment of the gold standard and the subsequent acceptance of fiat currency systems. By detailing the historical context, it illustrates how undisciplined money supply increases inevitably lead to inflation, which erodes savings and purchasing power. The example of how the value of the dollar has been altered since the removal from the gold standard serves to underscore the negative impact of monetary policy on everyday citizens. Consequently, the speaker advocates for a return to a gold-backed monetary system to restore meaning and stability to currency, reinforcing that sound money principles are critical for lasting economic health.