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Land is a Big Deal: Why rent is too high, wages too low, and what we can do about it

I first encounted Lars Doucet through his Georgeism series reviewing Progress and Poverty, originally on Scott Alexander's newsletter. Land is a Big Deal is this series, cleaned up and polished to be a cohesive book. I haven't read Progress and Poverty, but Doucet writes a modern, rational, and clear pitch for Georgeism. Georgeism is an economic and taxation view that land tax (not property tax) is the single best way to tax, ensure rent stays affordable, and minimize economic waste. The argument is simple, and to my lay perspective, totally checks out.

It's a great book if you're into economic policy and reducing rent-seeking behavior. It's not nearly as radical as Radical Markets, and seems quite practical to actually do.

Ratings

These are entirely subjective, and roughly try to capture my personal enjoyment and usefulness, and how likely I'd recommend it to others. Don't read too much into this unless you love my judgement. Rough guidelines:

A: Top quartile. Changed the way I think about something.

B: Worthwhile. I took away something useful.

C: Didn't hit, wouldn't directly recommend. Likely won't revisit.

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