Steven D. Levitt

In this thought-provoking discussion, economist Steve Levitt teams up with legal expert John Donahue and environmental economist Jessica Walpaw Reyes. They unpack the controversial link between legalized abortion and declining crime rates, shedding light on societal implications. The trio critically reflects on the complexities of causation versus correlation, the importance of access to abortion for marginalized communities, and the environmental factors influencing crime. Their insights spark a broader conversation on child welfare and the future of education.

Join the podcast to hear Steven D. Levitt discuss his career, transition to academia, and decision to retire. Explore his impact on applied microeconomics, data-driven research, and the evolution of academic economics at UChicago. Reflect on golf, retirement, and the future of economics, as well as insights into teaching, educational reform, and pandemic project challenges.

Steve Levitt, co-author of Freakonomics and a University of Chicago professor, discusses the evolution of parenting insights over the past decade. He humorously explores how his children reflect on their upbringing, touching on nature vs. nurture and educational philosophies like homeschooling versus traditional schooling. The conversation highlights the balancing act of achievement and unconditional love, while Levitt's daughter offers a critique of economic theories. Expect a blend of evidence-based parenting advice and real-life anecdotes that resonate with modern challenges.

Steve Levitt, a University of Chicago economist and co-author of Freakonomics, explores the nuanced language of questions and their importance in communication. He analyzes the overuse of phrases like 'that's a great question' and their effects on authentic dialogue. The conversation takes a poignant turn as Levitt addresses how negative news impacts emotions, urging listeners to prioritize mental health amidst a barrage of distressing headlines. This insightful discussion blends linguistic analysis with real-world implications, keeping listeners engaged.

Economist Steve Levitt from the University of Chicago and Stanford Law's John Donohue dive deep into the controversial theory linking Roe v. Wade to the decline in crime rates. They discuss their original research and the backlash it faced, along with updated analyses in light of new abortion restrictions. The conversation also navigates the complex ties between abortion, unwanted children, and societal outcomes. Levitt and Donohue urge a shift to data-driven discussions, emphasizing the importance of evidence in shaping public policy debates.