Subject: Freakonomics is based on Steven Levitt's core belief: "the modern world is not impenetrable, it is not unknowable, and if the right questions are asked, it is even more intriguing of we think. All it takes is a new way of looking. Levitt explains that the world is a complicated universe, which makes it difficult for some to navigate. In Freakonomics, Levitt tells the reader to look at the world in a different perspective to understand the inner workings. Unlike most books, Freakonomics does not contain a unifying theme throughout the book; instead, key ideas are introduced periodically, teaching readers to think economically , simulations, and personal anecdotes. Readers learn that economics is the study of incentives, which explains the reasoning behind one's actions and mindset. Second, Dubner and Levitt explain that conventional wisdom can be misleading; instead, credible data should be used to explore concepts and determine the truth. Next, Levitt explains the careful study methodology, determining the direct translation between cause and effect. Finally, the importance of proper economic measurement to enable success is discussed. Freakonomics uses historical information to uncover the causes of observed behavior and teaches readers how to investigate the world in depth. Say no to plagiarism. Get a tailor-made essay on "Why Violent Video Games Shouldn't Be Banned"? Get an original essay Occasion: Freakonomics was published on April 12, 2005 by William Morrow. During this decade there have been great advances with the Internet, allowing for faster communication and globalization. There has also been great economic growth for most nations which has come with many social, financial and environmental consequences. Pop culture was also an impactful aspect of this time period, resulting in an integration of culture into the book. Levitt and Dubner never imagined writing a book like Freakonomics, nor did they imagine collaborating together. In the summer of 2003, "The New York Times sent Dubner, an author and journalist, to write a profile of Steven D. Levitt, an accomplished young economist at the University of Chicago." Dubner was extremely impressed with Levitt and his intriguing ideas and the two became close. New York City publishers told Levitt he should write a book, Levitt was not such a rejected writer, but instead proposed "maybe Dubner and I can do this together." Within two years the book was written, edited and published for the public who automatically fell in love with it. Audience: Through the collaboration and exposure of Dubner and Levitt, their ideas began to interest many people around the world. “Levitt's ardent curiosity also proved attractive to thousands of New York Times readers. He was assailed by questions and queries, enigmas and requests." Readers were continuously engaged in their articles, keeping up with the latest columns and sending them their own questions. This support system was reassuring for the two authors as people appreciated their work and wanted more of it. Freakonomics was not intended for a specific audience, the authors instead believed the book would be "a treat for anyone who wanted to know how the world really works." The two creators initially thought that they would only sell 80 copies, but this was definitively confirmed as it became a worldwide best seller. To date, over 5 million copies have been sold in 40 different languages, the book has aroused great interest.