Freakonomics Radio Why Do People Still Hunt Whales? (Update)
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Aug 15, 2025 
Join Bjorn Basberg, a professor emeritus of economic history, and Jay Alabaster, an American journalist studying in Japan, as they dive into the controversial world of whaling. They explore why some countries, like Norway and Japan, continue this practice despite dwindling demand for whale products. Discover the rich historical context of whaling, the socio-economic factors influencing these traditions, and the complex interplay between conservation efforts and cultural significance. Alabaster shares insights from Taiji, revealing the nuanced perspectives in an ongoing debate.
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Modern Whaling Is Now Limited To Three Nations
- Norway, Japan, and Iceland are the only countries still practicing commercial whaling today.
- Their whaling persists despite low global demand and an IWC moratorium that most nations follow.
Technology Created Industrial Whaling
- Industrial whaling used steamships and explosive harpoons to hunt much larger Antarctic whales.
- New technology created a modern industry that Americans did not adopt as they moved into other booming sectors.
Whaling Was Norway’s Economic Opportunity
- Norway pursued whaling because it offered jobs and foreign exchange when the country was poor.
- For some years whaling revenue sometimes exceeded fisheries and represented a notable share of GDP.
