Economist Podcasts
The Intelligence: America’s culture wars brought to bears
Dec 8, 2023
Erin Braun, the West Coast correspondent for The Economist, sheds light on the increasing confrontations between grizzly bears and humans in Montana, fueled by conservation efforts and political debates. Meanwhile, Duncan Weldon dives into Britain's booming vaping industry, underscoring a growing demand for regulation amidst health concerns. The conversation also touches on the intriguing selection of 'ChatGPT' as the word of the year, reflecting its cultural significance in today's rapidly evolving landscape.
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Quick takeaways
- The debate over grizzly bear protections in the American West pits state control against concerns for potential negative impacts on bear populations.
- The vaping industry in the UK is requesting more oversight and proposing a licensing scheme to address concerns about youth vaping and lack of regulation.
Deep dives
The Rise of Grizzly Bears in Montana and the Push for Delisting
Grizzly bears are increasingly encroaching into residential areas in Montana, leading to mixed reactions among residents. While some express pride in the thriving bear population, others fear for their safety and livelihoods. Montana's Republican Governor, Greg Gianforte, and neighboring states Wyoming and Idaho have petitioned for the removal of grizzlies from the Endangered Species List, arguing for state control and management. However, concerns persist about potential negative impacts on bear populations if management is left solely to state authorities.
