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SuperFreakonomics uses the same analytical style of Freakonomics, but applies it to different topics. So, in general, if you liked the first book, you'll probably like the second; if you didn't, you probably won't. That said, I did like Freakonomics, and SuperFreakonomics was not a disappointment. I love how Levitt and Dubner manage to tip over a bunch of sacred cows and really make you think about things. They readily admit that the point isn't whether you believe them, the point is that you're thinking. And this book inspires thinking in spades.
Some of the more memorable ideas, at least for me, were:
- Suicide bombers should buy life insurance (because it tricks the profilers when they're looking at their bank records)
- Friends don't let friends walk drunk (because deaths by walking drunk are five times more likely, per mile, than deaths from driving drunk)
- Child safety seats in cars might be no more effective for children over the age of two than simple seat-belts
- The solution to global warming might be simple, cheap, non-damaging, and already available (though people may still hate it) -- just like doctors washing their hands made infant mortality plummet in the 19th century
- The solution to devastating hurricanes may be equally simple, cheap, and available (the supplies may be available at Home Depot)
- Many of the "altruism" studies that I've internalized over the years (the Prisoner's Dilemma, Ultimatum, etc.) may not work nearly as well outside the laboratory, in the real world
- A team of scientists are working on a laser beam to assassinate mosquitos (to fight malaria)
- Monkeys can be led to prostitution (I swear I'm not making this up)
If any of these ideas sound interesting to you, I highly recommend SuperFreakonomics. You may not agree, but I guarantee it'll get you thinking.
