The Politics of Energy Transition

In this week’s episode, host Daniel Raimi talks with Glenn Hubbard, dean emeritus and Russell L. Carson Professor of Finance and Economics at Columbia University’s business school, and a member of the board of directors at Resources for the Future. Hubbard shares insights from his new book, “The Wall and the Bridge: Fear and Opportunity in Disruption’s Wake,” which is about the role of economics in shaping policy, effecting structural change, and preparing communities for the forthcoming transition to a low-carbon economy. Raimi and Hubbard discuss lessons from economic transitions of the past, related policies, the importance of “social insurance” in the labor market, and the need to build bridges of opportunity rather than walls of protection—all with an eye toward ensuring a just transition. References and recommendations: “The Wall and the Bridge: Fear and Opportunity in Disruption’s Wake” by Glenn Hubbard; https://yalebooks.yale.edu/book/9780300259087/wall-and-bridge “Storm” by George R. Stewart; https://www.penguinrandomhouse.com/books/665307/storm-by-george-r-stewart-introduction-by-nathaniel-rich/