Financial planner Drew Benson, a former student of economist David Henderson, was recently interviewed in two parts. The first part was posted on Henderson’s Substack, “I Blog to Differ,” where Benson shared insights on various topics. The second part, which was also shared on Substack, delved deeper into key issues discussed during the interview.
One of the highlights of the interview was the impact of lockdowns on civil society, with Benson noting a decrease in robustness due to restrictions. He also drew a connection between lockdowns and the George Floyd riots, highlighting the complex societal dynamics at play. Benson shared a personal anecdote about his daughter adjusting to the San Francisco lockdown and the fear of breaking restrictions to see her.
The interview also touched on the devastating effects of lockdowns on people in poor countries, with Benson emphasizing the high cost incurred by vulnerable populations. The discussion also delved into the global decline in extreme poverty and how lockdowns briefly reversed this positive trend.
On the economic front, Benson and Henderson discussed the Federal Reserve’s behavior during crises, comparing the responses in 2008-09 and 2020-21. They also delved into monetary theory, with Henderson reminiscing about taking Jeff Hummel’s class and the impact it had on his writing, including a critical article in the Wall Street Journal.
The conversation also touched on inflation predictions, historical market crashes, and significant policy decisions made by central banks. Henderson shared insights from his experience with the Wall Street Journal and referenced key readings on inflation and monetary policy.
Overall, the interview provided a comprehensive overview of various economic and societal issues, offering valuable insights into the complexities of current events and historical economic trends. Henderson’s Substack serves as a platform for engaging discussions and thought-provoking analysis, making it a valuable resource for those interested in economics and public policy.
