Chris Blattman

In this engaging discussion, economist Chris Blattman, Ramali Pearson Professor of Global Conflict Studies at the University of Chicago, explores the roots of war and the complexities of peace. He delves into why, despite the catastrophic costs of conflict, wars still occur. Blattman argues that understanding non-conflicts is key to revealing what a healthy society looks like. He also examines the intricate relationship between personal interests of leaders and warfare, emphasizing alternative strategies for peacebuilding that go beyond mere economic solutions.

Chris Blattman, a professor at the University of Chicago, researches the causes of violence and war. In this engaging conversation, he explores the multifaceted nature of conflict, examining how economics, psychology, and culture intersect. Blattman discusses the psychological and ideological factors driving resilience during the Ukrainian struggle and critiques the role of leadership and propaganda in escalating violence. He also highlights the importance of understanding gang dynamics and shares a transformative personal anecdote that shifted his career toward humanitarian efforts.

Chris Blattman, an economist and political scientist at the University of Chicago, explores the political and institutional causes of war in his insightful discussion. He challenges traditional views on demographics as predictors of conflict, emphasizing accountability and societal sentiment in leadership. Blattman examines the fragile peace in Ireland, the complexities of Colombia's governance, and the unpredictable nature of war influenced by concentration of power. He also draws parallels between bouldering focus and budget decisions in development, introducing fascinating perspectives on conflict and cooperation.

Chris Blattman, an economist from the University of Chicago and author of "Why We Fight," dives into the complexities of conflict and human behavior. He reveals why most rivalries don’t lead to violence and explores five critical barriers to compromise. Blattman discusses the often-misguided attempts to analyze Putin's motivations, emphasizing a broader context for understanding war. He highlights the surprising instances of conflict avoidance among nations, showcasing that peace is more prevalent than it seems, even amidst tension.

All of us want to feel safe in our daily lives. Yet when we think about crime, our first response is often a blanket approach: find the bad guys, and punish them. But what if there were another way? This week on the show, researchers Sara Heller and Chris Blattman explore how technology and psychology can be used to radically transform our approach to crime. Don't forget to check out the episodes in this year's You 2.0 series, including last week's conversation with Adam Grant about how to open your mind and question your own assumptions. And if you like our work, please consider supporting it! See how you can help at support.hiddenbrain.org.