How to Think about Economics

I have a degree in economics but haven't practiced the profession a day in my life.  Am I qualified to say how one should think about economics?  Probably not, but I just finished Economics in One Lesson by Henry Hazlitt.  It was originally written in 1946, but, as someone once said, history has a tendency to repeat itself.  The lesson applies as much, or more, today than it did then.  Especially in regards to the "economic stimulus package".

The Lesson: The art of economics consists in looking not merely at the immediate but at the longer effects of any act or policy; it consists in tracing the consequences of that policy not merely for one group but for all groups.

Question:  Is the Economic Stimulus Package a good thing?  Will it reduce unemployment?

Answer: No.  It will have several negative results which will adversely affect the work poor the most severely.  But don't just take my word for it, read what Hazlitt has to say.