To anyone who reads this ...

Thanks for not giving up on me.  Although, in all honesty, I would have given up on you :)

Ok, something short to start the ball rolling.  Pie [chart] economics.

For three years (8-10th grades) I taught a group of homeschoolers history once a week.  During that time we had many opportunities to discuss different economic models.  As I taught this material, especially once we reached the 1800's and forward, I came to the conclusion that there are two basic perspectives when it comes to economics.  To illustrate these two perspectives, we move to dessert - specifically apple pie!

The first group basically believes that there is only one pie, which must be shared out among everyone present at the table.  Some systems advocate equally sharing the pie.  Others share the pie out on a basis of status or power or ablility - some get more and others less.  Many insist that those with larger pieces of pie should give up (or be forced to) some of their portion until everyone has a fair share.  Etc.

The second group fundamentally believes that if one doesn't like the size of their piece of pie, then they should go and bake another pie.  Maybe they'll only have enough resources or ability to make a tart - or perhaps one likes cookies or cupcakes better.  All the better!  The more that is made, the more there is to share around.  From this perspective, one is content to get a smaller piece of any individual pie because one is receiving multiple small pieces from the several pies.

Which group will be more welcoming of new guests to the table?  The first is likely to be resentful because each new face at the table means less for them.  The second is likely to be glad to see them, because there is the reasonable expectation that new people will add to the diversity and quantity of the desserts.

That's my nutshell summary of economics.  I'll end with one thought exercise for y'all to try.

As you drive around (or ride if you're not able to drive yet), look around you at the different houses and buildings that you pass.  Try to guess how much it would cost to buy any one of those buildings (how much for a house, a townhouse, a barn, a shopping plaza, an office building, a gas station, etc).  Count the number of buildings, estimate the value for different types, multiply buildings by values, then add the different categories to a grand total.  My guess is that you'll be amazed at how much wealth is quietly sitting there as you drive past.  Now figure that this is only what you pass on your daily route.  Then go to google maps, and see how big this country is compared to your small neighborhood ...

Frankly, it boggles my mind.