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
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.
Jan 23, 2024 • 16min
How Do Europe's Speech Restrictions Impact US Speakers?
Exploring Europe's speech restrictions and their impact on US speakers, including the interplay between Europe's regulations and the US free speech debate. Discussing the differences in speech restrictions in European countries, grassroots pushback against these laws, and the concerns of a balkanized internet. Examining the targeting of large online platforms and the potential consequences on technological innovation.
Jan 18, 2024 • 13min
Will China's Military Dysfunction Buy Taiwan Time to Build Its Defenses?
Taiwan should arm up according to Cato's Eric Gomez. Corruption in China's military could give Taiwan time to build up defenses. The podcast explores China's military dysfunction, its impact on Taiwan, and the US responsibility for Taiwan's defense.
Jan 15, 2024 • 20min
National Rifle Association v. Vullo
Exploring New York's policies against the NRA and the First Amendment implications, questionable actions by state officials in the NRA v. Vullo case, parallels with government censorship of social media, consequences of government pressure and settlements, and the influence of regulatory agencies on businesses and the need for clear rules.
