Wheelan explains how prices emerge in a free market economy and what factors influence them. He demonstrates that prices aren't arbitrary but rather the result of supply and demand and other market forces, helping readers better understand the dynamics behind everyday price changes.

The book illuminates the significance of government intervention in the economy. Wheelan discusses when and why governments should intervene to correct market failures and what effects such interventions can have, providing readers with a balanced view of the relationship between free markets and government regulation.

A central theme is how financial markets function and their role in the global economy. Wheelan explains how financial markets contribute to capital allocation and what risks and opportunities they present, particularly relevant for readers seeking to better understand investment strategies and economic stability.