As chairman of the Federal Reserve Board of Governors for nearly two decades, Alan Greenspan was probably one of the most influential - some would say "powerful" - people in the world. From among the things you learned about Greenspan's personal life and early years, what aspect surprised you the most? How do you think this affected his career and thinking?
Based on what Greenspan writes about his monetary policy decision-making during his term, do you have any reason to suspect that his decisions were ever politicized? Do you suspect that he ever led the Board of Governors or the FOMC in a specific direction, consciously or subconsciously, to avoid being criticized as "in the tank" for the Republican party? Explain why or why not.
What is Dutch Disease?
To what does Greenspan attribute the exceptional growth, dynamism and resiliency of the US economy relative to that of other countries?
Earlier this year we discussed the manner and purpose of the Federal Reserve System's independence.In a recent GOP presidential nomination debate, both Senator Rand and Senator Cruz argued that the Fed should be subject to greater congressional oversight and intervention.What is your opinion about whether Congress should establish greater control over the Fed, thereby diminishing its independence? Do you think these candidates' opinion is justified based on the actions of the Greenspan Fed, by their dissatisfaction with Greenspan's successors or both?
Who is Ayn Rand? What does she have to do with Greenspan's leadership at the Fed?