EconTalk Jonathan Rauch on the Constitution of Knowledge
Aug 2, 2021
In this engaging discussion, Jonathan Rauch—journalist and author of "The Constitution of Knowledge"—delves into how society discerns truth in an era flooded with misinformation. He advocates for the restoration of institutional norms that support free speech and structured debate. Rauch examines the impact of financial incentives on media integrity and the erosion of ethical standards in various fields. He also tackles the role of the internet in shaping tribalism and urges a collective effort to uphold accurate information and foster healthier discourse.
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Constitution of Knowledge
- The Constitution of Knowledge is a social system for determining truth, respecting freedom, and maintaining civility.
- It's decentralized and relies on competition, similar to the U.S. Constitution.
Shifting from Zero-Sum to Positive-Sum
- Capitalism transformed wealth creation from a zero-sum game (e.g., stealing) into a positive-sum game.
- The Constitution of Knowledge similarly offers a less violent way to determine truth than imposing beliefs through war.
Branches of the Constitution of Knowledge
- The Constitution of Knowledge, like the U.S. Constitution, wasn't initially written down but evolved through norms and institutions.
- Its four branches are research, journalism, law, and government, all relying on rules and professionals.
