"By the same logic many economists use , we could find any number of absurd things . For example there is a well known correlation between skyscraper construction and economic downturn , we could conclude from this that tall buildings depress economies and that recessions can be avoided if we disallow the construction of record-height buildings . The other thing economists need to realise is that economic statistics are entirely historical , they provide empirical information about a particular group at a particular time , not universal truths about mankinds ' behaviour in general . Even if we run an experimental design in the realm of human action showing X causes Y , differing social and cultural norms may result in the precise opposite effect at another period of time ."
"So , the cavaet is `` The death penalty is a deterrent in the USA TODAY ! `` I can live with that ."
"For example there is a well known correlation between skyscraper construction and economic downturn , we could conclude from this that tall buildings depress economies and that recessions can be avoided if we disallow the construction of record-height buildings . The other thing economists need to realise is that economic statistics are entirely historical , they provide empirical information about a particular group at a particular time , not universal truths about mankinds ' behaviour in general . Even if we run an experimental design in the realm of human action showing X causes Y , differing social and cultural norms may result in the precise opposite effect at another period of time ."
"So , the cavaet is `` The death penalty is a deterrent in the USA TODAY ! `` I can live with that ."