We¡¯re long past the days when uttering the words ¡°climate economist¡± elicited confusion, pity, or worse: ¡°Which is it? Pick your side! You can either focus on the climate, or the economy, not both.¡±
Nowadays, though, there¡¯s another reaction that is more common, especially in many progressive circles that are typically most concerned with tackling climate change: ¡°It¡¯s your fault.¡±
No, not personally. Look, I¡¯m vegetarian, have never driven, and share 750 fully electrified square-feet with two kids and a dog. (Rescue, of course, thanks for asking.) That list tends to soften the blow. But as an economist I know that individual action won¡¯t do. It takes policy instead. And herewith begin the problems.
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