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Planet Money Summer School

History 8: Big ideas and life lessons from Marx, Keynes and Smith and more

Aug 28, 2024
Join economic titans Adam Smith, a founder of capitalism; Karl Marx, the critiquer of capitalist society; and John Maynard Keynes, pioneer of macroeconomic thought, as they delve into vital lessons from economics. They discuss the dual narratives of human progress and environmental crisis over the last fifty years. From food security advancements to the fight for social justice, each guest brings valuable insights on wealth disparity and innovative economic theories, making it a journey through history and philosophy.
32:48

Podcast summary created with Snipd AI

Quick takeaways

  • Economic history reveals a dual narrative of progress with reduced poverty alongside concerning environmental challenges, emphasizing the complexity of growth.
  • Influential economists like Smith, Marx, and Keynes provide diverse insights on market dynamics, economic inequalities, and the role of government intervention.

Deep dives

Economic History as a Learning Tool

Economic history serves as a valuable framework for understanding contemporary issues and challenges. By examining past events, listeners gain insights into how economic theories and practices have evolved over time. This context helps in evaluating whether economics has fulfilled its promise of improving lives. The episode emphasizes the significance of understanding these historical developments to navigate current economic landscapes effectively.

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