A mini practical handbook on Economics The book Economics in 15' presents important ideas and approaches a topic that concerns us all in an understandable way. Starting from the barter economy and the Industrial Revolution and ending with the emergence of globalization, each chapter addresses – in a smart and entertaining way – a significant question and analyzes how economics critically affect our daily lives and thinking.   Why do we pay taxes? Is inflation a good or bad thing? Does austerity pay off? How does the stock market work? What should be done about the unequal distribution of wealth? Popular science series Interesting ideas Ann Rooney holds a PhD from Trinity College, Cambridge. After a period of teaching in York and Cambridge, she decided to pursue writing. She has written many books for adults and children, on topics related to science, the humanities, and technology. She lives in Cambridge and is a fellow of the Royal Literary Fund at Newnham College, Cambridge.