Garett Jones

Garett Jones is an economist and professor at George Mason University, known for his work on macroeconomics, national intelligence, and institutional economics. His 2016 book "Hive Mind: How Your Nation's IQ Matters So Much More Than Your Own" examined the relationship between national average IQ scores and economic prosperity. In 2020, he published "10% Less Democracy: Why You Should Trust Elites a Little More and the Masses a Little Less," which analyzes the potential benefits of reducing democratic influence in certain policy decisions. Jones has contributed to academic discourse through research papers on monetary policy, IQ, and economic growth. His work frequently explores controversial topics at the intersection of cognitive ability, institutional design, and economic outcomes. Prior to his academic career, Jones worked at the Federal Reserve and served as a staff economist on the Joint Economic Committee of the U.S. Congress. He maintains an active presence in economic policy discussions through his publications and social media engagement.

Readers consistently note Jones' clear writing style but debate his controversial conclusions. On Goodreads, "Hive Mind" receives discussion for making complex economic concepts accessible, though multiple reviewers question his emphasis on IQ as a primary driver of national outcomes. Readers appreciate: - Data-driven approach with clear citations - Ability to explain economic concepts to non-specialists - Thorough research methodology Common criticisms: - Oversimplification of complex social issues - Perceived political bias in analysis - Limited consideration of alternative explanations "10% Less Democracy" generates more polarized responses. A common critique notes the book doesn't adequately address potential downsides of reduced democracy. One Amazon reviewer wrote: "Makes interesting points about expertise in governance but ignores historical lessons about unchecked power." Ratings: Hive Mind - Goodreads: 3.9/5 (216 ratings) - Amazon: 4.3/5 (89 ratings) 10% Less Democracy - Goodreads: 3.7/5 (328 ratings) - Amazon: 4.1/5 (112 ratings)

Hive Mind: How Your Nation's IQ Matters So Much More Than Your Own (2015) Examines data showing how national average intelligence scores correlate with economic development and societal outcomes across countries.

10% Less Democracy: Why You Should Trust Elites a Little More and the Masses a Little Less (2020) Analyzes historical and contemporary evidence suggesting that reducing democratic participation in certain policy areas may lead to better economic outcomes.

Bryan Caplan explores similar themes around democracy, immigration, and education through an economic lens. He has written extensively about voter irrationality and institutional failures at George Mason University, where he and Jones are colleagues.

Gregory Clark examines long-term economic history and the role of institutions in development. His work on social mobility and genetic transmission of economic success shares intellectual territory with Jones's research on national IQ and economic outcomes.

Jason Collins focuses on the intersection of behavioral economics and evolution, particularly how cognitive traits affect economic outcomes. His analysis of intelligence and economic behavior builds on similar foundations as Jones's work on national cognitive abilities.

Nicholas Christakis studies how social networks and human nature influence societal outcomes. His research on collective intelligence and group behavior complements Jones's work on aggregate national characteristics and institutional design.

Peter Turchin analyzes historical cycles and social evolution through mathematical modeling. His work on elite overproduction and political instability connects with Jones's research on optimal democratic institutions and governance structures.