Freakonomics Radio
622. Why Does Everyone Hate Rats?
Feb 14, 2025
Kathy Corradi, NYC's Director of Rodent Mitigation, delves into innovative strategies to combat the city's notorious rat population. Joining her is Bethany Brookshire, a science journalist and author, who explores the cultural perceptions surrounding these misunderstood creatures. They discuss the historical misconceptions linking rats to the Black Death, the ethical challenges of rat control, and the critical role of sanitation. The conversation also uncovers why our disdain for rats may reflect human biases rather than true health threats.
41:23
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Quick takeaways
- New York City's rat population has surged due to sanitation issues exacerbated by COVID-19, prompting a comprehensive mitigation plan.
- The stigma against rats, often viewed as disease carriers, is challenged by research suggesting their complex relationship with humans and urban environments.
Deep dives
The Crisis of Urban Rats
New York City's rat population has notably increased, especially during the COVID-19 pandemic, leading to a pressing concern for city officials. Kathy Karate, the citywide director of rodent mitigation, describes the challenges of managing rat populations, which thrive on human waste and urban environments. As sanitation issues persist in the city, rats exploit poorly maintained spaces, compounding the problem. The city's approach to addressing this involves a comprehensive 99-page rat mitigation plan emphasizing sanitation and waste management to reduce food sources for these rodents.
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