Matt Yglesias Reader Takeover: Tell our Moneybox columnist what economic pseudo-problem to debunk.

Alarmed by Recent Economic Trends? Matt Yglesias Will Make You Feel Better.

Alarmed by Recent Economic Trends? Matt Yglesias Will Make You Feel Better.

Slate writers take assignments from our readers.
Nov. 13 2012 3:33 PM

Boss Matt Yglesias Around

Which economic pseudo-problem should he debunk?

Voting is now closed.
Matt Yglesias

"Alarmed by recent economic trends? Fear not."

Matt Yglesias

Slate Business and Economics Correspondent

Economics news is, for some reason, relentlessly negative. Every day I scan the papers and see a wall of fearmongering about a vast array of pseudo-problems. Sometimes it's just cynics trying to sell more newspapers, but oftentimes it's idealists who think alarming people is a good way to spur action. Either way, it's hard to get the word out about how nonproblematic certain kinds of problems are—the panickers have all the good headlines. During the Slate Reader Takeover I want you to tell me which of these "alarming" economic trends is worrying you the most, and I'll let you know why you ought to relax.

What economic problem should I debunk?

Rising health care costs.
10 votes
The national debt
10 votes
The trade deficit
10 votes
Inflation
10 votes
Currency manipulation
10 votes

This poll will close at noon on Thursday, Nov. 15.