In 'Big Business', Tyler Cowen challenges common misconceptions about large corporations, arguing that they are integral to the functioning of American society. He highlights their role in spurring innovation, rewarding talent and hard work, and creating the economic bounty that Americans depend on. The book addresses various criticisms of big business, including issues of CEO pay, tech industry ethics, and the influence of corporations on government. Cowen emphasizes that the benefits of big business outweigh its flaws and that it is a fundamental institution in American life[1][2][4].
In this book, Tyler Cowen and Daniel Gross delve into the art and science of finding top talent. They cover various scientific research areas relevant to talent search, including how to conduct effective interviews, evaluate intelligence and personality traits, assess talent in online interactions, and identify undervalued talent such as women and individuals with disabilities. The authors provide practical advice and unique interview questions to help startups and organizations find and retain A-level talent.
In 'The Complacent Class', Tyler Cowen argues that Americans have become too comfortable and resistant to change, which has resulted in decreased innovation and increased social segregation. He identifies three types of complacent individuals: the privileged, those who dig in, and those who are stuck. Cowen suggests that this complacency will eventually lead to a major crisis unless Americans embrace change and innovation again.
Tyler Cowen is Holbert L. Harris Professor of Economics at George Mason University and also Director of the Mercatus Center.
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Timestamps
(0:00) - The Great Reset
(2:58) - Growth and the cyclical view of history
(4:00) - Time horizons, growth, and sustainability
(5:30) - Space travel
(8:11) - WMDs and end of humanity
(10:57) - Common sense morality
(12:20) - China and authoritarianism
(13:45) - Are big businesses complacent?
(17:15) - Online education vs university
(20:45) - Aesthetic decline in West Virginia
(23:20) - Advice for young people
(25:18) - Mentors
(27:15) - Identifying talent
(29:50) - Can adults change?
(31:45) - Capacity to change men vs women
(33:10 ) - Are effeminate societies better?
(35:15) - Conservatives and progress
(36:50) - Biggest mistake in history
(39:05) - Nuke in my lifetime
(40:35) - Age and learning
(42:45) - Pessimistic future
(43:50) - Optimistic future
(46:28) - Closing
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