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ABSTRACTION: Simplifying the complexities of the real world by ignoring (hopefully) unimportant details while doing economic analysis. Abstraction is often criticized because it's, well, it's JUST NOT REALISTIC. However, when done correctly (ignoring things that JUST DON'T MATTER), then the pursuit of knowledge is greatly enhanced by abstraction. For example, when travelling cross country along a high-speed interstate highway, a paper road map is a handy tool. It shows towns and cities along the way, the major intersections, rest stop locations, and other important points of interest. However, it ignores unimportant details. It doesn't realistically show the location of every tree, bush, or blade of grass. Why bother? This information won't enhance your road trip.
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RATIONAL ABSTENTION The decision NOT to do something (such as vote in an election) because the cost of taking the action is more than the expected benefit. The rational decision to refrain from an endeavor is a straightforward application of utility maximization and along with the related notion of rational ignorance, is a source of voter apathy and government inefficiency.
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GREEN LOGIGUIN
[What's This?]
Today, you are likely to spend a great deal of time searching the newspaper want ads trying to buy either a three-hole paper punch or decorative picture frames. Be on the lookout for poorly written technical manuals.
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This isn't me! What am I?
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Approximately three-fourths of the U.S. paper currency in circular contains traces of cocaine.
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"A stumble may prevent a fall. " -- Margaret Thatcher, British prime minister
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IV
Instrumental Variables
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