Freakonomics Radio EXTRA: The Fascinatingly Mundane Secrets of the World’s Most Exclusive Nightclub
5 snips
Jun 17, 2024 
PJ Vogt, a reporter and host known for his insights into the digital age, joins Lutz Leichsenring, a key figure in Berlin's nightlife, to dissect the legendary Berghain nightclub. They explore the club's rich history and infamous door policy, revealing how Cold War tensions and tax laws shaped its mystique. The conversation touches on the unique social dynamics of belonging in Berlin's nightlife and the evolution from post-war parties to a cultural institution, illustrating the balance between exclusivity and community.
AI Snips
Chapters
Books
Transcript
Episode notes
Trip to Berghain
- Two friends, Chris and Dan, flew to Berlin to visit Berghain, a famous techno club.
- They tried to get in three times but were rejected each time by Sven, the bouncer.
Berlin's No Curfew Policy
- Berlin's lack of curfew originated from a 1949 meeting between Heinz Zellermeyer and General Howley.
- Zellermeyer argued that a curfew caused security issues, leading to its abolishment and the rise of Berlin's unique nightlife.
Berghain's Tax Battle
- In the early 2000s, Berlin's tax authority questioned the nature of nightclubs like Berghain.
- Berghain's court victory established it as a concert venue, influencing its door policy and protecting the city's counterculture.
