Money & Macro Talks The Unexpected Origins of American Gun Violence ft Jens Ludwig
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Dec 15, 2025 
Jens Ludwig, a prominent professor of public policy and director of the Chicago Crime Lab, engages in a compelling discussion about American gun violence. He outlines how societal fears and the impact of gun accessibility contribute to homicide rates. Ludwig critiques harsh incarceration methods and emphasizes data-driven interventions that have proven effective in reducing violence. He suggests that everyday arguments are often the root of shootings and highlights innovative prevention strategies, including cognitive training programs that can significantly lower recidivism.
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Gun Violence Shrinks Cities
- Gun violence imposes broad social costs beyond victims, distorting daily life and shrinking city populations.
- Jens Ludwig estimates Chicago would have ~600,000 more residents if it matched New York's homicide trend since 1991.
Guns Plus Violence Explain Homicides
- Gun availability raises murder rates by increasing lethality, but guns alone don't explain variation between similar countries.
- Ludwig: gun violence = guns + willingness to use them, so reducing willingness matters if guns remain prevalent.
Incentives Aren't The Full Story
- Most Americans view violence as either moral failing or economic desperation, implying an incentives framing.
- Ludwig argues this misses that many violent acts are expressive and driven by fast, emotional reactions.