inflation... and other concepts explained?

[billybob]

I've never really understood many, many things about our economy and other financial stuff... While I have learned a lot here about investments, etc, I was wondering if anyone had any good links to learn more about broader financial topics like:

What causes inflation?
What is the Consumer Price Index?
How does inflation affect interest rates?
Why does the "Fed" raise interest rates?
What exactly is the "Fed"? what is its purpose?
What does it mean when the dollar gains or loses value?
How does all of this affect/ is affected by the Stock Market?

And other such questions...

Sorry if I sound stupid, but I just want to learn more. I haven't always been financially saavy, and this isn't stuff they teach you in school...

Any feedback would be appreciated!
thanks

[sweeps]

http://en.wikipedia.org/wiki/Inflation
http://www.slate.com/id/1007348/
http://www.investopedia.com/university/thefed/
http://www.investopedia.com/university/inflation/
http://www.investopedia.com/articles/04/102004.asp

Keep in mind that a lot of these topics are controversial: how inflation should be measured, what is a "normal" rate of inflation, how much (if at all) the Fed should raise rates to fight inflation, etc. etc.

[PRICEPLUS]

Sweepsplayer you've done it again!

[Russell]

Sweepsplayer for president!

[JoyJoy]

Sweepsplayer is just plain remarkable!!

[sweeps]

You guys are being silly.

[JoyJoy]

No we isn't! LOL

[billybob]

thanks sweeps! i guess its not an easily understood subject...