6 Freakonomics Movie Worksheet Answers You Need

Exploring the Unconventional World of Freakonomics

The Freakonomics movie, based on the bestselling book by Steven Levitt and Stephen Dubner, offers a fascinating exploration of the hidden side of economics. By applying economic principles to unusual and intriguing topics, the film challenges viewers to think differently about the world. To help you navigate the thought-provoking ideas presented in the movie, we’ve put together this worksheet with answers to six key questions.

Question 1: What is the central argument of the Freakonomics movie?

The central argument of the Freakonomics movie is that economics is not just about money, but about how people make decisions and respond to incentives. The film shows how economic principles can be applied to a wide range of topics, from cheating in school to the impact of abortion on crime rates.

🤔 Note: This question requires viewers to understand the main theme of the movie and how it challenges traditional notions of economics.

Question 2: What is the concept of "information asymmetry" discussed in the movie?

Information asymmetry refers to a situation where one party has more or better information than the other party in a transaction. In the movie, this concept is illustrated through the example of real estate agents, who may have more knowledge about the housing market than their clients.

Examples of Information Asymmetry:

• A used car salesman knowing more about the car’s history than the buyer
• A doctor having more information about a patient’s condition than the patient themselves
• A financial advisor having more knowledge about investment options than their clients

📊 Note: Understanding information asymmetry is crucial in making informed decisions in various aspects of life.

Question 3: How does the movie argue that the legalization of abortion in the 1970s led to a decrease in crime rates in the 1990s?

The movie argues that the legalization of abortion in the 1970s led to a decrease in crime rates in the 1990s because it reduced the number of unwanted children being born into poverty. These children were more likely to grow up in difficult circumstances and turn to crime. By reducing the number of unwanted births, abortion helped to reduce the number of potential criminals.

🚨 Note: This argument is based on the idea that crime is often linked to socioeconomic factors, such as poverty and lack of opportunities.

Question 4: What is the concept of "the power of incentives" discussed in the movie?

The power of incentives refers to the idea that people respond to rewards and penalties, and that these incentives can shape behavior. In the movie, this concept is illustrated through the example of a school teacher who is offered a bonus for improving student test scores, but is instead caught cheating to get the bonus.

Examples of the Power of Incentives:

• A company offering bonuses to employees who meet sales targets
• A government offering tax breaks to companies that invest in renewable energy
• A school offering rewards to students who achieve good grades

💰 Note: Understanding the power of incentives is crucial in designing policies and programs that shape behavior.

Question 5: How does the movie argue that names can affect a person's chances of success?

The movie argues that names can affect a person’s chances of success because they can influence how people perceive and treat others. For example, a person with a “black-sounding” name may be more likely to face discrimination in the job market. The movie shows how this phenomenon can lead to disparities in outcomes between people with different names.

📝 Note: This argument highlights the importance of considering the social and cultural context in which names are given and perceived.

Question 6: What is the main message of the Freakonomics movie?

The main message of the Freakonomics movie is that economics is not just about numbers and charts, but about understanding human behavior and how people respond to incentives. By applying economic principles to unusual topics, the movie shows how we can gain a deeper understanding of the world and make more informed decisions.

In conclusion, the Freakonomics movie offers a fascinating exploration of the hidden side of economics. By applying economic principles to unusual topics, the film challenges viewers to think differently about the world and its complexities.

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