GDP is the total value of final goods and services produced in a country, with the US having the highest GDP. GDP per capita measures output per person, which is also highest in the US. While the US unemployment rate of 7.6% appears low, many Americans are still out of work and struggling financially. Personal income includes wages, investment earnings, and government payments to individuals. High productivity is important for meeting peoples' needs and wants, and is influenced by factors like personal income and GDP.

1. Colin O’Dowd