Most economists agree that economic freedom promotes growth, but fewer agree that more political freedom improves economic performance as well. Chile of the 1970s and 1980s and China today are just two autocracies with strong economies.

Even though the U.S. is one of the world's leading exporters, few companies actually sell abroad. One reason may be that exporting requires a company to be highly productive.

Businesses have found that it can pay off to engage in social stewardship, such as donating to charity, protecting the environment and nurturing a diverse and safe workplace.

Better-educated people appear to be in better health than less-educated people. But does more education cause better health, or are there other factors at play – such as income and access to information?