Freakonomics Radio 395. Speak Softly and Carry Big Data
Oct 31, 2019
In a thought-provoking discussion, political scientist Robert Pape dives deep into using data analysis to understand terrorism and foreign policy. Chuck Hagel reflects on past military interventions and the challenges they posed, while Michèle Flournoy emphasizes the role of diplomacy in security strategies. They explore the limitations of economic sanctions, the realities of spreading democracy, and the evolving nature of cyber warfare, shedding light on the complexities that define modern international relations.
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Levitt's CIA Visit
- Steve Levitt shared an anecdote about visiting the CIA.
- He lost his badge and feared being shot, but a CIA agent kindly helped him.
Suicide Terrorism
- Robert Pape's research on suicide terrorism revealed that most attacks are responses to military occupation.
- He warned against invading Iraq, predicting a surge in suicide attacks.
Research Impact
- Steve Levitt's research rarely impacts policy directly.
- The only example he could give was a drunk-walking law in Alaska based on his work.