So many of the assumptions within economics are rooted in the idea that people are, first and foremost, self-interested. This mindset may have served well to explain how our economic systems are, but it can prevent us from imagining how they should be. To solve our most challenging environmental and social problems, we need economic thinking that sees people as more than merely self-interested.

In 2000, the electric power industry in America generated 3,802 billion kilowatt hours (kWh) of electricity, with 1,966 billion of them coming from coal (that’s 51.7% of the total). In 2020, the numbers were 4,007 billion kWh of total American electricity with 773 billion of them coming from coal (19.3%). That’s a massive reduction both in gross terms and in grid mix percentage.

by Doug Lynam of Longview Asset Management and author of 'From Monk to Money Manager 

As the United States endures the longest shutdown in its history, Americans are getting a taste of life without government.

The absence of some services are clearly visible, such as a buildup of trash at national parks or longer lines at airport security checkpoints. Others, like those felt primarily by businesses, are less noticeable but arguably more important, such as an inability to get a small business loan or limited service from the IRS, Securities and Exchange Commission and other key agencies.