From ABBA to Led Zeppelin: using music to teach economics
From ABBA to Led Zeppelin: using music to teach economics

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Diamond's Are A Girl's Best Friend - Marilyn Monroe

JEL: a d z   

The French were bred to die for love
they delight in fighting duels
but I prefer a man who lives
and gives expensive jewels.
A kiss on the hand may be quite continental
but diamonds are a girl's best friend.

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Assignment:

From the movie "Gentlemen Prefer Blondes," Marilyn Monroe sings about diamonds being a girl's best friend. Interpret the lyrics "Men Grow Cold/As Girls Grow Old/) in light of "Rings and Promises" by Margaret Brinig (Journal of Law, Economics, and Organization 1990). Why might diamond wedding rings persist given that increased career opportunities for women have eliminated much of the need for a 'wedding bond'? Do you see the diamond engagement ring disappearing over time? Why or why not?

[HT: S. Yopp]

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