The Human Progress Podcast

Economist Donald Boudreaux joins Marian Tupy to discuss important misconceptions about American economic history and why it’s crucial to set the record straight.Learn more in his book, The Triumph of Economic Freedom: Debunking the Seven Great Myths of American Capitalism.

Philosopher Maarten Boudry, an expert in critical thinking and cultural evolution, dives into the roots of Western anti-Western sentiment. He discusses Rousseau's views on the tension between scientific progress and moral decay. The conversation highlights the paradox of dissent in free societies and the complexities of self-criticism in modern contexts. Boudry critiques the paternalism of affluent nations regarding environmental policies, emphasizing their impact on developing countries. This thought-provoking dialogue navigates the balance between critique and confidence in society.

Tyler Cowen, a prominent economist at George Mason University, discusses the New Right's dynamics and how classical liberalism addresses modern political dilemmas. He examines the historical roots and legacy of liberalism, revealing its impact on post-war Europe. Cowen critiques public misconceptions of economics and the challenges faced by liberalism today, especially amid COVID-19. The conversation also delves into immigration assimilation between the U.S. and Europe, as well as the evolution of trust in society, offering a thought-provoking take on contemporary issues.

In this engaging discussion, writer and political thinker Matt Johnson shares insights from his recent essay in The Quillette. He tackles historicism and its threat to open societies, linking it to the rise of identity politics and tribalism. Johnson emphasizes the importance of liberal democracies in securing human progress and highlights the perennial struggle for recognition and pluralism. He also reflects on the resilience of democracies amidst modern challenges and the ongoing balance between democratic ideals and authoritarian trends.

Stephanie Murray joins Chelsea Follett to discuss discourse around falling birth rates, the tension between pro-natalism and classical liberal values, and how it might be resolved.

Scott Lincicome joins Marian Tupy to discuss how President Trump's trade policies will affect American prosperity, national security, government revenue, and industry.

Daniel Griswold, the former director of the Cato Institute’s Center for Trade Policy Studies, joins Chelsea Follett to discuss the true legacy of globalization.

Existential psychologist Clay Routledge joins Chelsea Follett to discuss how Americans think about the future, recent trends in mental health, the alleged "crisis of meaning," and how nostalgia can drive progress.

Jon Moynihan, a British businessman and author of "Return to Growth," discusses the crucial role of economic growth in society. He highlights the connection between growth and global happiness, citing historical advancements that improved life expectancy. Moynihan contrasts the stagnation in the EU with the growth in the US, addressing the impact of Brexit. He explores the Moini curve, examining taxation limits influenced by culture, and warns about the pitfalls of high national debt on public services. His insights urge a reevaluation of current economic models.

John Early, a mathematical economist and adjunct scholar at the Cato Institute, joins Chelsea Follett to discuss popular misconceptions about inequality in the United States and the measurement errors behind them.