Freakonomics Radio
586. How Does the Lost World of Vienna Still Shape Our Lives?
May 2, 2024
Richard Cockett, author and senior editor at The Economist, dives into the vibrant intellectual legacy of Vienna, exploring how its ideas shaped modern politics, psychology, and consumer culture. He discusses the city's decline under fascism and the subsequent exodus of thinkers who influenced American thought. The impact of Viennese culture on architecture and media manipulation is highlighted, alongside connections to contemporary issues like democracy and rising extremism. Cockett stresses the importance of preserving this rich heritage as a vital lesson for today's world.
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Quick takeaways
- Vienna's intellectuals influenced multiple fields, from sociology to psychology, contributing to modern ideas.
- Viennese diaspora defended liberal values, combating nationalism and fascism to uphold fundamental principles.
Deep dives
Vienna's Influence on Modern Civilization
Vienna's intellectual culture and educational worldview produced a plethora of great thinkers and doers across various fields. The Viennese diaspora, especially in the United States, made significant contributions, such as the founder of modern empirical sociology, Paul Lazarsfeld. Their impact extended to the defense of liberal capitalism during the Cold War, where they wrote foundational pieces against communism and socialism. The Viennese applied psychology to various aspects of life, influencing architecture, marketing, and economics.
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