That Which is Seen, and That Which is Not Seen

One of Frédéric Bastiat’s most influential essays, “That Which Is Seen, and That Which is Not Seen” details the way in which economic truths are gained – by looking at the whole picture. Bastiat proposes that that which is not seen is often the less desirable side of the issue, and so should be examined when making laws or economic decisions. This essay holds particular weight in our current state of affairs, and should be examined for its uncovering of government spending practices.