In this chapter of Naked Economics, I found it particularly interesting that things like beautiful architecture are considered positive externalities. When Wheelan looked out his window at work and saw the awe-inspiring Wrigley Building and Tribune Tower, he didn't pay for it's upkeep or renovations but enjoyed the benefit of their beauty.
What surprised me even more was the claim that smoking was actually a benefit to society. When I walk past someone smoking on the street and get a fresh whiff of that stale cigarette scent, I definitely never think of social security benefits, yet that is what Wheelan points out.
This chapter really revealed how most of all our actions are externalities, both positive and negative. This encourages me to think more about every decision I make and how it's going to affect not only myself but the community around me.
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