In this episode, Mark explores the psychology and economics of extractive industries, from mining to energy production. Despite their crucial role in advancing civilization—providing everything from metals to fuel—these industries are now vilified, especially by younger generations influenced by environmentalist ideology. But what are the real economic consequences of restricting resource development? How does political interference in mining and energy affect future supply, prices, and investment opportunities? Tune in as Mark breaks down the myths, the propaganda, and the financial reality behind one of the most misunderstood sectors of the economy.

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On this episode of Minor Issues, Mark Thornton examines the relentless attacks on Amazon, from labor disputes to environmental concerns. Is Amazon truly exploiting workers, or is the unionization push just a case of economic envy? Mark dissects the claims, debunks myths about wages and working conditions, and explores the economic realities behind one of the world’s biggest employers. Tune in for a straightforward breakdown of Amazon’s labor battles and the broader implications for business and workers alike.

"Your Kids Are Already Communists, and College Will Make It Worse" (Minor Issues Podcast): Mises.org/MI_89

"Criticism of Amazon" (Wikpedia): Mises.org/MI_109_A

Murray Rothbard's 99th birthday is March 2. The Mises Institute is celebrating with its "Murray99" campaign. Everyone who donates $26 or more using the Mises.org/Murray99 link will receive a copy of Economic Depressions: Their Cause and Cure and Nations by Consent. The first 26 donors will also receive a Rothbard lapel pin. All donations will fund student scholarships.

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There are many important twists and turns in human history, but from the long perspective, the history of humans can be seen as a very positive upward sloping trend in all the important standard of living markers. Why don't Austrian economists talk about trends?

"The Goose That Laid the Golden Eggs" (Minor Issues Podcast): Mises.org/MI_78

"Ludwig von Mises on Trade, Human Development, and Human Progress" by Mark Thornton: Mises.org/MI_78_A

"Population" (Unanimity Podcast): Mises.org/U3

Enter the raffle to win a ticket to the Mises Institute's April 26 event in Phoenix at Mises.org/phoenixraffle25. The deadline to enter is April 1. Winners will be announced the week of April 7. To learn more about "Our Enemy, The Bureaucracy," visit Mises.org/phoenix25

Be sure to follow Minor Issues at Mises.org/MinorIssues