EconTalk

Michael Munger on the Perfect vs. the Good

Apr 24, 2023

Michael Munger, a Duke University economist and former gubernatorial candidate, explores the tension between idealism and pragmatism in political discourse. He discusses directionalists versus destinationists—how some aim for practical change while others hold out for ideal outcomes. The conversation delves into education reform, rent control, and minimum wage laws, questioning their implications on liberty. Munger also reflects on the evolving political landscape and the philosophical foundations of capitalism, sharing insights on moral principles and individual choice in today's society.

01:14:38

Creator website

Episode guests

Michael Munger

AI Chapters

Episode notes

Intro

6min

The Tension Between Idealism and Pragmatism in Education Reform

4min

Debating Freedom and Policy

30min

Contrasting Philosophical Approaches to Economics and Politics

2min

Navigating Morality and Liberty in American Politics

15min

The Moral Framework of Capitalism in 'Atlas Shrugged'

3min

Liberty vs. Society

15min

Is the perfect really the enemy of the good? Or is it the other way around? In 2008, Duke University economist Michael Munger ran for governor and proposed increasing school choice through vouchers for the state's poorest counties. But some lovers of liberty argued that it's better to fight for eliminating public schools instead of trying to improve them. Munger realized his fellow free-marketers come in two flavors: directionalists--who take our political realities as given and try to move outcomes closer to the ideal--and destinationists--who want no compromises with what they see as the perfect outcome. Listen as Munger talks to EconTalk's Russ Roberts about two different strategies for achieving political goals. Along the way, they discuss rent control, the minimum wage, and why free-market policies are so rare.

Remember Everything You Learn from Podcasts

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