Make Me Smart An economic vocab lesson for the Trump era
Oct 9, 2025
The discussion dives into critical economic terms like authoritarianism and state capitalism, shedding light on their relevance today. Experts explain the nuances of stagflation, outlining its historical context and potential future impact. The podcast also clarifies the difference between tariffs and sanctions amid ongoing political tensions. Listeners gain insights into the complexities of Trump's trade deals and the implications of government intervention in the economy.
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What Authoritarianism Really Means
- Authoritarianism centers on concentrated power that sidelines democratic processes and citizen input.
- Patrick Eddington warns it means one-man or one-party rule with severely curtailed civil liberties.
Competitive Authoritarianism Today
- Modern authoritarianism often looks like competitive authoritarianism where elected leaders erode institutions from within.
- Karin Vosby Anderson explains leaders can use media, universities, and law enforcement to tilt politics in their favor.
Rise Of State Capitalism
- State capitalism describes government directing private-sector decisions rather than markets allocating resources.
- Justin Wolfers says recent interventions like a White House equity stake and CEO demands show a novel degree of personal government intervention.