Acknowledgements
Many people have helped me on this project, but there are some who deserve special recognition. Rick Tilman, William Waller and Bryce Kanago graciously volunteered to read earlier versions of the manuscript. Their comments greatly improved the final result. Of course, any remaining errors are my responsibility. Tom Kompas and Dudley Luckett introduced me to Veblen many years ago. Obviously, they made a lasting impression. The members of the economics department at the University of Northern Iowa have been a constant source of support and encouragement. They are good economists and even better people. I view them as my extended family. Roy Adams, David Hakes and Keith Heimforth have had a long-term impact on my development as an economist. Cambria Press made the publishing process much smoother and faster than I ever imagined. The Graduate College of the University of Northern Iowa provided financial support for a semester. And without the love and support of my wife Danita, nothing would be possible.