HBR IdeaCast 20 Years of Freakonomics: How It Changed Business
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Oct 21, 2025 
Stephen Dubner, journalist and co-author of Freakonomics, delves into the book's monumental impact on economics and culture. He shares insights on how complex economic ideas reached the masses and discusses the varied reactions from the academic community. Exploring the balance between storytelling and ethics, Dubner highlights the importance of evidence-based narrative in media. He also reflects on the book's legacy, revealing inspiring listener stories and the challenges of a post-factual world, emphasizing the enduring need for fact-driven journalism.
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Freakonomics Made Economics Cool
- Freakonomics popularized behavioral economics and changed how companies think about consumers and employees.
- Stephen Dubner credits the book with making economics culturally relevant and influencing managers' approaches.
Mixed Academic Reactions
- Reactions from economists ranged from anger to gratitude depending on perspective and exposure.
- The book likely boosted interest in economics majors and expanded the audience for economists.
Examine The Ecosystem Behind Wisdom
- The aim was to examine whole ecosystems around conventional wisdom, not to play cheap gotcha games.
- Dubner argues many experts have incentives that shape the conventional wisdom they promote.
