Human Capital for Humans is [a] crisp, entertaining and empirically grounded tour of what makes all economic systems tick (and indeed falter) . . . It’s an essential and somewhat optimistic read in a moment when artificial intelligence threatens to compete with humanity’s comparative advantages.
Economics Books, FINANCIAL TIMES
With a lively narrative, Human Capital for Humans explains in an accessible way some of the most remarkable contributions of one of the most influential economists in recent memory, Gary Becker. It is a great introduction to human capital theory and even to economics in general, placing human beings and their most consequential decisions front and center. The book is a terrific reminder that economics is ultimately about people, and that it can be absolutely fun.
MICHAEL KREMER, winner of the Nobel Prize in economics
You don't need a PhD from the University of Chicago to appreciate Human Capital for Humans―but you might want to pursue one after you finish! A rollicking ride through basic questions concerning the human condition, as seen through the lens of economics. I guarantee that you'll viscerally disagree with at least one proposition herein, and that alone should be worth the cost of the book itself.
ANGELA DUCKWORTH, psychologist and author of Grit: The Power of Passion and Perseverance
In Human Capital for Humans, Pablo Peña brilliantly captures the essence of what makes economics not just about markets or money, but about people. Drawing on the revolutionary insights of Nobel laureate Gary Becker, Peña takes readers on an eye-opening journey, exploring how our everyday decisions shape who we become and what we achieve. If you want to learn to think like a University of Chicago economist, skip the PhD and read this book instead.
STEVE LEVITT, coauthor of Freakonomics
This very fine book achieves the dual purpose of making human capital theory more engaging for seasoned experts while remaining accessible to a broader audience. It also serves as a fitting tribute to Professor Gary Becker, a towering figure in this field of economic analysis. His insights have been instrumental in understanding human behavior and formulating key strategies for development, which can now be further disseminated thanks to Pablo Peña.
ERNESTO ZEDILLO PONCE DE LEÓN, Yale University and Former President of Mexico
A thorough and engaging introduction to the ideas that made Gary Becker one of the most influential economists in modern times.
KEVIN MURPHY, long-time coauthor of Gary Becker
Human Capital for Humans offers a captivating exploration of the economics of human capital, injecting a fresh perspective into the field. Through accessible and engaging narratives, it underscores the significance of human capital in a manner that resonates with readers. Drawing inspiration from the groundbreaking work of Gary Becker, this book breathes new life into his teachings with compelling stories. The book makes human capital theory accessible and appealing. So, as the preface suggests, sit back, relax, and prepare to be enthralled by the economics of human stories.
HARRY PATRINOS, Head of the Department of Education Reform at the University of Arkansas and former Lead Education Economist at the World Bank
What economists know about human capital, namely the productive use of our talents and training? Pablo A. Peña has produced a fun and easy to read guide on this topic, the best treatment we have.
TYLER COWEN, host of the Marginal Revolution blog and the Conversations with Tyler podcast