Econ Talk is a weekly podcast from John Sutter. This week, we look at what might make econ talk more valuable to listeners. What do you think? Share your thoughts in the comments below or tweet us @jacobcovius and @JohnSutter on Twitter.
Software Engineer Andy Matuschak talks about his essay "Why Books Don't Work" with EconTalk host Russ Roberts. Matuschak argues that most books rely on transmissionism, the idea that an author can share an idea in print and the reader will absorb it. And yet after reading a non-fiction book, most readers will struggle to remember any of the ideas in the book. Matuschak argues for a different approach to transmitting ideas via the web including different ways that authors or teachers can test for understanding that will increase the chances of retention and mastery of complex ideas.