The Economics of Road Rage

Econ 110 was a dreaded class among my fellow college freshmen.  I don't know exactly what cause it to be so feared, because I didn't take it.  I wish I had.  Even so, I understand some basic economic principles and appreciate how they apply to my every day, but not necessarily cash related, decision making.  For example, I see the benefit in running a basic cost analysis in deciding between taking the kids to the park during nap time and staying home to fight for sleep.  

More people should take economics.  Maybe then they would behave more logically.  (Ha.)

I'd especially like to sentence the guy who cut me off in traffic today to a mandatory Econ 110 crash course (no pun intended).  This maniac in a Lexus SUV gunned it big to blow past me while his lane ended.  In doing so, he came inches from sideswiping me - and my kids - made me hit my brakes hard, and gave me a near heart-attack.  By the way,why is it always the Mercedes and Lexus drivers that always seem the most dangerous people on the road?  Does anyone else notice that?   I don't see nearly the same rate of crazy-driver syndrome in BMWs and  Acuras.  

The Lexus continued in front of me going at least 20 over the speed limit (I'm not exaggerating: he was leaving me far behind and I was going 7-10 over).   The guy was obviously in a hurry.  The funny thing was, for all his reckless driving, he wasn't getting anywhere faster than I was.  For three miles he sped ahead of me - hitting every single light I hit.  In fact, I was never more than a car behind him.  

If this guy had taken his Econ, he'd realize his risk/benefit balance was way off kilter. I took the opportunity to loudly point out this disparity to my children (and quietly hope there was a speed camera on our route).  They concurred with my assessment.  So, if a 3yr and 5 yr old can grasp that concept why can't someone who is making enough dough to buy a Lexus get it?  I know - it must be because I'm just raising economic geniuses!  .......Well, maybe not, but maybe they will at least be able to pass Econ 110 when the time comes....