Freakonomics Radio cover image

472. This Is Your Brain on Pollution

Freakonomics Radio

00:00

The Cognitive Costs of Air Pollution

This chapter examines how air pollution, specifically particulate matter, affects cognitive function and overall human health. It highlights alarming statistics about global exposure to polluted air and the resultant decline in life expectancy, while also discussing historical and economic implications. The narrative uses case studies like the peppered moth to illustrate environmental adaptations and the socio-economic repercussions of air quality on populations.

Transcript
Play full episode

The AI-powered Podcast Player

Save insights by tapping your headphones, chat with episodes, discover the best highlights - and more!
App store bannerPlay store banner
Get the app