What are the benefits of economic freedom?
Studies in this and previous editions of the Index of Economic Freedom demonstrate important relationships between economic freedom and positive social and economic values such as per capita income, economic growth rates, human development, democracy, the elimination of poverty, and environmental protection. For further information, see especially: • Executive Highlights, • Chapter 3: Economic Freedom Around the World, • Chapter 4: A Free Economy Is a Clean Economy, and • Chapter 5: Economic Freedom and the Pursuit of Happiness.