EconTalk Will DOGE and Musk Make a Difference? (with Michael Munger)
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Jan 13, 2025 Michael Munger, an economist from Duke University, discusses whether Elon Musk can use DOGE to challenge government bureaucracy. He argues against the idea, questioning the effectiveness of empowering bureaucrats to regulate each other. The conversation delves into the struggles of implementing reform within government agencies and the balance libertarians must strike between promoting market efficiency and avoiding excessive state power. Munger also humorously connects current political dynamics to classic films, highlighting the ongoing battle between authority and governance.
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A Libertarian Paradox
- Russ Roberts finds this a libertarian moment despite the rising size of government and lack of free-market focus during elections.
- Factors include Javier Milei's success, free speech defense, the proposed Department of Government Efficiency, and deficit focus.
Libertarianism's Dilemma
- Michael Munger argues libertarianism is torn between celebrating markets and critiquing state intervention.
- He emphasizes the danger of empowering the state, even for seemingly good purposes.
Politics and Infrastructure
- Russ Roberts recalls a past debate with Robert Frank about infrastructure spending.
- He highlights the impracticality of bypassing political processes, citing Social Security and Medicare means-testing as examples.