Photo: #"Buy local" movements are nothing new. Going back to at least the Middle Ages, economies have pulled back from trade in tough economic times. But economists say that is often counter-productive.
Larger view
"Buy local" movements are nothing new. Going back to at least the Middle Ages, economies have pulled back from trade in tough economic times. But economists say that is often counter-productive. (Photo: Rick Scully/Flickr)

Audio

MPR News
Radio

Listen Now

On Air

Talk of the Nation Science Friday

Schedule

Shortcuts
Hourly Newscast
Hosts
Station Map

Other Radio Streams from MPR

Classical MPR
Radio Heartland

Services

'Buy local' can be bad economics

by Cathy Wurzer, Minnesota Public Radio
Broadcast: Morning Edition, 04/06/2009, 8:40 a.m.

LISTEN

A new Twin Cities-based Web site encourages people to pick three local businesses and spend $50 at each of them every month. Organizers claim that will help the whole local economy. But economist Louis Johnston says buying local doesn't necessarily make economic sense.

More from MPR

Resources

Your Voice




Related Topics



Become a sponsor

Most Shared

  1. Study: One-third of adolescent girls victimized by dating partner
  2. Foreclosure settlement could help 17K Minn. homeowners
  3. Scientists concerned about antibiotic resistance in wastewater
  4. Farmland holds wealth in sand mining boom
  5. Analysis finds $55M shortfall in Minneapolis stadium plan

Latest News & Features


News Cut

with Bob Collins

In The Spotlight

  • Sound Learning

    Looking for ways to ensure your students are doing quality research from credible sources? Sound Learning is a launching point to Minnesota Public Radio's content on the Web.

  • The Current Music Blog

    Your daily note for good music, news and pop culture. With attempted jokes.