Contrary to most economists today, gross domestic product is a measure of total output and a measure of economic welfare. But for reasons articulated by astute analysts a few generations ago, it is a poor measure that relies on a host of dubious assumptions.

Robert Higgs is Retired Senior Fellow in Political Economy, Founding Editor and former Editor at Large of The Independent Review.
Economic History and DevelopmentEconomyGlobal FinanceInternational Economics and Development
Other Independent Review articles by Robert Higgs
Fall 2019 Pressure-Release Valves in Participatory Fascism
Winter 2018/19 Two Worlds: Politics and Everything Else
Fall 2018 Against the Whole Concept and Construction of the Balance of International Payments
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