Neil Kraus

Challenging economic myths, declining returns on education, surplus of degree holders in low-wage jobs, and misleading narratives in labor shortages. Exploring the complexities of education, STEM job myths, decline of coding jobs, debunking the skills gap, and the role of organized labor in creating economic equality.

Neil Kraus, a Political Science professor at the University of Wisconsin, explores the urgent themes of his book, 'The Fantasy Economy.' He critiques the long-standing belief that education is the sole pathway to economic opportunity, arguing this notion perpetuates wage stagnation and inequality. Kraus emphasizes that the education system is misrepresented by corporate interests, revealing the chaotic interplay between neoliberal policies and educational reform. He advocates for understanding education as a social necessity, aiming for a paradigm shift away from the flawed narratives surrounding the current economic landscape.

Debunking the myth of a looming skills gap in the economy, authors challenge the narrative driven by figures like Bill Gates. They explore the influence of policy elites on education and politics, advocating for a more holistic approach to economic challenges. Emphasizing the importance of questioning data and values in policy debates, the podcast delves into the transformative potential of education and collective actions.