Good on Paper

In this insightful discussion, Jens Ludwig, a University of Chicago economist and author of "Unforgiving Places," dives into the complex roots of gun violence in America. He emphasizes that many gun deaths stem from impulsive actions rather than premeditated plans. Ludwig advocates for innovative crime prevention strategies and highlights how urban design and community dynamics can fuel violence. The conversation challenges listeners to rethink their understanding of crime, considering psychological and environmental factors that shape behavior in different neighborhoods.

Danny Funt, a journalist for The Washington Post and author exploring the effects of sports betting, dives into the consequences of state-sanctioned gambling following a landmark Supreme Court ruling. He discusses how states, driven by financial necessity, rushed to legalize sports betting, leading to unforeseen issues like increased debt and problem gambling. Funt highlights the dramatic evolution of societal attitudes towards betting and the implications of online gambling's rise, advocating for stricter regulations to protect vulnerable populations.

Jennifer Pahlka, a senior fellow at the Niskanen Center and founder of Code for America, discusses the need for bipartisan government reform. She argues that Democrats must engage in reform efforts rather than sidelining them, emphasizing systemic inefficiencies. The conversation dives into the importance of modernizing hiring practices and policies, while addressing challenges in government efficiency. Pahlka also highlights the distinction between state capacity and political will, advocating for a refined approach to governance to ensure effective outcomes.

Aidan Toner-Rodgers, a PhD candidate at MIT, dives into the intriguing interplay between AI and scientific productivity. His research reveals how AI revolutionizes material science, boosting discovery rates by 44%. He discusses the 'streetlight effect,' showcasing AI's potential to foster creativity rather than merely replicate past solutions. The conversation also tackles the emotional toll of automation on scientists, weighing increased productivity against diminishing job satisfaction. Ultimately, it’s a thought-provoking look at AI’s double-edged impact on innovation.

David Broockman, a political scientist at UC Berkeley, challenges the conventional views of NIMBYism by emphasizing the role of deep-seated beliefs about symbols like cities rather than mere self-interest. He explores the surprising support for housing density among homeowners and highlights how public perceptions are influenced by generational attitudes and biases against large developers. Broockman also discusses the YIMBY movement's rise and the significance of policy evaluation to address housing needs for lower and middle-income families.

Dr. Rachael Bedard, a pro-vaccine physician with experience treating diverse populations, delves into the complexities of vaccine skepticism and public health. She champions the importance of finding common ground with Robert F. Kennedy Jr. despite his controversial stance on vaccines. The discussion addresses the need for transparent communication to rebuild trust in public health, particularly in vulnerable communities. Bedard also highlights the ethical dilemmas faced in FDA approval processes, emphasizing patient safety amid urgent health crises.

Join Dr. Alice Evans, a Senior lecturer at King's College London and author of "The Great Gender Divergence," as she unpacks the unsettling trend of young men leaning towards more radical views. The discussion dives into how socio-economic factors and social media shape their attitudes towards gender equality. Evans also explores the paradox of young men supporting women's rights in private yet harboring resentment in public spheres. Insightful comparisons with cultural dynamics in Qatar and South Korea reveal broader implications for gender politics globally.

Hunter Rendleman, a political scientist at UC Berkeley, delves into the relationship between good policy and electoral success. He discusses the Earned Income Tax Credit’s role in alleviating poverty and how this impacts voter behavior. The conversation explores voter sophistication and perceptions of policies, revealing that citizens can reward political leaders for beneficial initiatives, even when credit attribution is complex. Additionally, Rendleman highlights challenges in political representation and academic publishing, making for a thought-provoking discussion.

Eleanor West, a housing policy researcher and former member of New Zealand's Generation Zero, discusses the nation's bold steps to combat housing crises. She highlights the transformative impact of the 2011 Christchurch earthquake, which spurred significant reforms. West also delves into the contrasts between New Zealand's urban planning and U.S. policies, detailing generational shifts in climate activism. Expect insights on the challenges of political resistance, communal interests, and how innovative zoning can enhance housing availability.

Jennifer Doliak, an economist and criminal justice policy expert at Arnold Ventures, discusses the intricate relationship between policing and public safety. She delves into the effect of societal reforms on crime rate declines and the paradox of how protests for police accountability can lead to rising crime. Doliak highlights surprising links between air pollution and violent crime, as well as the need for better police training. Additionally, she emphasizes the importance of community engagement to address racial dynamics and promote long-term safety.