Abhijit Banerjee's new column explores how everyday experiences with food and markets reveal the hidden rules and norms that underpin both society and the global economy. Through personal anecdotes, such as shopping with his grandfather and reflecting on the conventions of bargaining, Banerjee illustrates how much we rely on trust and shared customs in daily transactions. He draws parallels to international politics, noting how leaders like Donald Trump disrupt established conventions, creating uncertainty and chaos reminiscent of a market without rules. Banerjee warns that abandoning these norms could lead to instability, as countries and individuals act opportunistically, undermining the order that conventions provide. The piece ends with a gentle return to culinary tradition, offering a recipe for a sweet millet pudding as a reminder of the pleasures and responsibilities embedded in our customs.