Conversations with Tyler

Matt Yglesias on Why the Population is Too Damn Low

Sep 9, 2020

Matt Yglesias, author of One Billion Americans, envisions a larger, less polarized America. He discusses why growing cities like Tokyo is easier than in New York and the governance challenges of urban population increases. Yglesias advocates for addressing declining fertility rates and suggests that larger families could benefit feminism. He emphasizes the importance of smart governance in navigating demographic shifts and shares insights on how to attract more competent individuals to government roles. His unique perspectives spark a fascinating conversation!

01:06:03

Creator website

Episode guests

Matthew Yglesias

AI Chapters

Episode notes

Intro

3min

Dynamics of Growth: Population and Economy

7min

Navigating Population Growth and Identity

17min

Navigating Families, Governance, and Recognition

11min

Evolving Musical Tastes and the Future of Social Media

3min

Impacts of the NBA Bubble on Player Performance

2min

Future of YIMBY and Political Dynamics

13min

Navigating Economic Complexity Post-Pandemic

7min

Insights from Family and the Complexity of Communication

3min

Matt Yglesias joined Tyler for a wide-ranging conversation on his vision for a bigger, less politically polarized America outlined in his new book One Billion Americans: The Case for Thinking Bigger.

They discussed why it’s easier to grow Tokyo than New York City, the governance issues of increasing urban populations, what Tyler got right about pro-immigration arguments, how to respond to declining fertility rates, why he’d be happy to see more people going to church (even though he’s not religious), why liberals and conservatives should take marriage incentive programs more seriously, what larger families would mean for feminism, why people should read Robert Nozick, whether the YIMBY movement will be weakened by COVID-19, how New York City will bounce back, why he’s long on Minneapolis, how to address constitutional ruptures, how to attract more competent people to state and local governments, what he’s learned growing up in a family full of economists, his mother’s wisdom about visual design and more.

Read a full transcript enhanced with helpful links, or watch the full video.

Recorded August 21st, 2020 Other ways to connect

Follow us on Twitter and Instagram
Follow Tyler on Twitter
Follow Matt on Twitter
Email us: cowenconvos@mercatus.gmu.edu
Subscribe at our newsletter page to have the latest Conversations with Tyler news sent straight to your inbox.

Remember Everything You Learn from Podcasts

Save insights instantly, chat with episodes, and build lasting knowledge - all powered by AI.