In this fascinating discussion, Daniel Ziblatt, a Harvard political scientist and co-author of bestselling books like *How Democracies Die*, examines how big money disrupts democratic processes. He highlights the alarming rise of corporate influence and its role in pushing voters toward extremes, undermining civil liberties and economic growth. Ziblatt questions whether democracy can truly thrive when undemocratic leaders are elected. He offers insights on how to realign governmental interests back to serving the people and confronting the decline of democracy globally.

In a compelling discussion, Ruchir Sharma, a renowned columnist for the Financial Times and former head of emerging markets at Morgan Stanley, delves into America’s economic troubles. He compares government bailouts to the opioid crisis, arguing they worsen economic issues. Sharma highlights the growth of zombie firms, the role of easy money in driving housing prices up, and how regulatory overreach leads to inequality. He also stresses the need for a strong welfare system to counter corporate manipulation and advocates for a clearer diagnosis of capitalism's ailments.

Federico Sturzenegger, an economist and former Argentine Minister of Deregulation and State Transformation, shares his insights on radical deregulation in Argentina. He discusses the ambitious plans of President Javier Milei to drastically reduce government size and oversight. Sturzenegger examines the potential lessons for the new U.S. Department of Government Efficiency (DOGE), questioning whether slashing regulations truly spurs broad economic growth or merely benefits a select few. The conversation delves into the balance between necessary regulations and economic revitalization, providing a compelling perspective.

Sir Niall Ferguson, an acclaimed author and historian at Stanford and Harvard, delves into the startling shift from fears of overpopulation to underpopulation. He emphasizes the troubling decline in fertility rates, highlighting consequences for economies and societies. The discussion touches on how factors like climate change, immigration, and the balance between career and motherhood influence family planning. Ferguson urges a rethink of economic theories as demographic changes reshape geopolitics and future labor markets, raising the question: can we reverse these trends before it's too late?

Kathryn Judge, a leading authority on banking and finance from Columbia University, joins the discussion about Visa's monopolistic grip on debit transactions. She sheds light on the Justice Department's antitrust lawsuit against Visa, alleging it suppresses competition and exploits fees. The conversation reveals how Visa's dominance stifles innovative payment solutions like Apple Pay. Judge emphasizes the intricate relationships in the middleman economy, underlining the need for a fairer and more transparent payment system for consumers.

Brody Mullins, a Pulitzer Prize-winning investigative reporter and co-author of "The Wolves of K Street," explores the intricate world of lobbying as it intertwines with American politics. He discusses how lobbyists, rather than political parties, often determine election outcomes, shedding light on corporate influence across administrations. Mullins delves into the evolution of lobbying since the 1970s, revealing its impact on society, and highlights the growing skepticism toward big business. The conversation raises crucial questions about the future of capitalism in an evolving political landscape.

Listeners get an inside look as the hosts tackle audience questions. They explore the definition of capitalism and its current challenges, including crony capitalism and wage disparities. Universal Basic Income sparks debate on whether it disincentivizes work, while the rise of AI prompts a reevaluation of economic principles. The conversation takes a fun turn as they imagine what they would do with presidential power for a day. Plus, there’s a curious inquiry: does Luigi really believe in taking time off?

Kamala Harris, a progressive U.S. presidential candidate, and former President Donald Trump discuss their economic policies in a unique environment where traditional platforms are eschewed for 'vibes.' They delve into the implications of tariffs, economic disparities, and the urgent need for clarity in policy. The conversation highlights energy transitions, the complexity of national debt, and the evolving landscape of cryptocurrencies, all while critiquing the lack of a coherent economic framework in today's political discourse.

Marietje Schaake, an international technology policy expert and former European parliamentarian, warns of a looming 'Tech Coup' undermining democracy. She discusses how Big Tech's grip erodes privacy and human rights. Schaake emphasizes the urgent need for regulation to maintain democratic principles amidst rapid technological advancement. She critiques the accountability of tech giants in crises and advocates for grassroots movements to ensure innovation serves the public interest rather than corporate power. This conversation is both enlightening and alarming!

America’s universities have powered its economy by developing an educated workforce and producing transformative technology, including the internet and vaccines. They were seen as vehicles for social mobility; when veterans returned home from World War II, the newly enacted G.I. Bill compensated millions with paid college and vocational school tuition. However, universities today are bloated and expensive, losing the public's trust, and have become a battleground for controversial culture wars. Project 2025, the Heritage Foundation’s blueprint for a second Trump administration, plans significant cuts to university subsidies. A big battle is looming over the future of American universities.To shed some light on what this future might look like, Bethany and Luigi are joined by Hanna Gray, Distinguished Service Professor Emerita of History and President of the University of Chicago from 1978 to 1993 — a period marked by immensely challenging debates on free speech, financial constraints, and leadership decisions. Gray has written that the creation of the modern university “rested on a faith, pervasive in the post-war world, and the potential for education to create a better world, to produce both social mobility and a meritocratic society that would realize the true promise of democracy.” With her trademark humor, sharp wit, and unwavering resolve, she offers insights from her trailblazing experience into whether this promise is more unkept than kept and if faith will be enough for the modern university system to survive.Episode Notes: Read the Kalven Report on the University's Role in Political and Social Action here.