Economics is the science that deals with the production, distribution, and consumption of goods and services, or the material welfare of humankind. Although relatively few men and women make a living from studying, explaining, or teaching its principles, economics affects every human being on a daily basis. Why do some people struggle just to survive, while others live in luxury? Is a free-market economy really better than a command economy? What makes certain items more valuable than others? You'll discover the answers to these questions and more in Practical & Foundational Economics....