Cato Podcast
Cato Institute
Each week on Cato Podcast, leading scholars and policymakers from the Cato Institute delve into the big ideas shaping our world: individual liberty, limited government, free markets, and peace. Whether unpacking current events, debating civil liberties, exploring technological innovation, or tracing the history of classical liberal thought, we promise insightful analysis grounded in rigorous research and Cato’s signature libertarian perspective. Hosted on Acast. See acast.com/privacy for more information.
Episodes
Mentioned books
Feb 10, 2024 • 12min
As Surveillance Fight Rises Again, New Fed Spyware Is Revealed
The podcast discusses the use of ad-based spyware by US intelligence agencies and the reauthorization debate on section 702 surveillance. It also addresses deceptive data collection and storage practices, and the implications of surveillance and profiling in FBI investigations.
Feb 9, 2024 • 52min
The Road to Freedom: Estonia's Rise from Soviet Vassal State to One of the Freest Nations on Earth
In his new book, The Road to Freedom: Estonia’s Rise from Soviet Vassal State to One of the Freest Nations on Earth, Matthew D. Mitchell and his coauthors recount the fall and rise of Estonian freedom. Hosted on Acast. See acast.com/privacy for more information.
Feb 7, 2024 • 8min
Cato Institute Lands on FBI's "Vexsome" List for FOIA Requests
Learn about the Cato Institute's efforts to hold the FBI accountable through FOIA requests, including uncovering FBI monitoring of nonviolent groups. Explore the bias of being on the FBI's list of frequent filers and efforts to address this issue through government committees and a forthcoming book on domestic surveillance.
8 snips
Feb 6, 2024 • 13min
Containing Medicaid Costs at the State Level
This podcast discusses the challenges of containing Medicaid costs at the state level. It explores the expansion of Medicaid, the need for reform, and methods to decrease spending. The incentivization of states to spend more on Medicaid is explored, along with potential reforms for reducing costs. The challenges of controlling Medicaid expenses, including reimbursement differentiation and long-term care challenges, are also addressed.
Feb 5, 2024 • 9min
Reviving Federalism to Tackle the Government Debt Crisis
The podcast explores the idea of devolving federal spending to states as a way to tackle America's debt problem. It discusses the impact of bond ratings on state governments' borrowing ability, proposes reviving federalism to address the debt crisis, and emphasizes the need to transfer more responsibilities to the state level for better budget balance.
Feb 1, 2024 • 11min
"Nicotinophobia" Is for the Children
Exploring the misconceptions about nicotine and its potential benefits, including harm reduction through e-cigarettes. Discussing concerns of young people and nicotine pouches, challenging fear of nicotine and highlighting therapeutic benefits. Exploring the controversy of flavored vaping products and nicotine lozenges, with a focus on parental responsibility in children's access to nicotine.
Jan 31, 2024 • 13min
Context for the Fresh Calls for War with Iran
Recent drone attack in Jordan leads to calls for war with Iran. Questionable rationale for US deployment in Syria and potential role in triggering war. Discussion on link between attacks on US troops and Israel's campaign in Gaza. Arguments for war with Iran and danger faced by US personnel.
6 snips
Jan 30, 2024 • 12min
Fresh Chaos at the Border Doesn't Change What's Needed to Rationalize Immigration
Exploring the chaos at the border, the podcast discusses the failure of immigration laws, misconceptions around illegal immigration and the need for a rationalized immigration policy. It also analyzes President Biden's sponsorship program, decreasing approval rates in US legal immigration, and highlights the importance of a strong economy and immigration system.
Jan 29, 2024 • 11min
Milei at the World Economic Forum
The podcast discusses Javier Milei's message at the World Economic Forum, emphasizing the negative consequences of abandoning free market principles. It analyzes the reactions to his speech and the unexpected popularity it gained. The podcast also explores the significance of dollarization and the risks associated with not implementing it in Argentina's economy.
Jan 23, 2024 • 14min
Taiwanese Elections and the Looming China Threat
The podcast discusses the implications of Taiwan's recent elections on the country's defense strategy in relation to China. It explores the lack of urgency in Taiwan regarding the cross-strait issue and the impact of the elections on US policymakers. The need for increased defense spending in Taiwan and the average person's views on unification with China are also discussed.
