Good on Paper

Yamil Velez, a political scientist at Columbia University, dives into the intricate world of persuasion and fact-checking. He discusses when fact-checks succeed or backfire, revealing that rudeness is a major turn-off for changing minds. Velez shares insights from experiments with chatbots, showing that people can shift their opinions on hot topics but often cling to their beliefs when faced with incivility. The conversation navigates the ethics of research and the complexities of misinformation, blending humor with serious social issues.

In this insightful discussion, John Rappaport, a law professor at the University of Chicago, dives into the intriguing topic of police labor mobility. He reveals how policies often trap officers in stagnant positions, complicating accountability and fostering a concerning trend of 'wandering officers'—those who move between departments despite past misconduct. Rappaport discusses the impact on community safety, the role of police unions, and presents the idea of a national database to enhance transparency. This conversation sheds light on the urgent need for reform in law enforcement practices.

Yoni Appelbaum, deputy executive editor at Atlantic, joins host Jerusalem Demsas to unravel the hidden drivers of America’s housing crisis. They discuss how local governments, despite a favorable public image, are exacerbating issues like rising rents and economic stagnation. Appelbaum highlights the disconnect between local voters and decision-makers, and how zoning policies stifle mobility and exacerbate the affordable housing shortage. The conversation also touches on the role of activist groups challenging these entrenched local policies.

Dylan C. Penningroth, a UC Berkeley professor, shines a light on the often-overlooked history of Black people's interactions with the legal system. He reveals how enslaved individuals utilized contracts, property rights, and marriage laws to assert their humanity and agency. The discussion challenges the victim-centric narratives of the Jim Crow era, highlighting resilient Black institutions and community dynamics. Penningroth also critiques the portrayal of legal knowledge among Black southerners by civil rights organizations, emphasizing the complexities of civil rights narratives and the ongoing impact of law on Black lives.

Michelle Goldberg, a New York Times columnist known for her incisive political commentary, discusses the evolution and backlash of 'wokeness.' She explores how social movements have shifted in recent years, focusing on language versus tangible change. The conversation highlights challenges in progressive activism and the role of social media in shaping discourse. Goldberg questions whether we might miss 'wokeness' if it fades away, while analyzing its implications for movements, policy, and the current political landscape.

Political commentator Matt Yglesias discusses the nuances of vice-presidential picks, specifically examining Kamala Harris's choice of Minnesota Governor Tim Walz. He explores whether this selection can truly sway undecided voters and critiques traditional electoral strategies. Yglesias dives into the complexities of identity politics, especially for female candidates, and reflects on the evolving nature of political communication in the digital age. He even shares insights on leadership challenges from his experience at Vox.com.

Saloni Dattani, a researcher at Our World in Data, dives into the alarming rise in maternal mortality rates in the U.S. She reveals that this spike might stem from measurement changes rather than a true increase in deaths. The discussion unpacks how historical data classifications and pandemic influences shaped current statistics. Saloni emphasizes the importance of accurate data interpretation and effective communication to address misconceptions, stressing the need for transparency in public health narratives.

Jesse Jenkins, an assistant professor at Princeton University and a renowned expert in energy systems, delves into Texas's surprising leadership in renewable energy. He discusses how Texas's regulatory advantages and natural resources outpace California's bureaucratic hurdles. The complexities of wind energy development, the pitfalls of environmental litigation, and the contentious role of hydrogen in the energy landscape are also explored. Jenkins calls for a balanced approach to overcome these challenges and achieve ambitious clean energy goals.

Professor Arthur Brooks discusses the role of religion in happiness, arguing that the 'nones' are unhappier. The podcast explores the decline in personal connections, the 'free market for souls' in the US, trends in religious affiliation, and the pursuit of happiness through religion.

Economist Christopher Campos discusses a school choice experiment in LAUSD where public high schools competed for enrollment, narrowing achievement gaps and boosting college enrollment. The impact of school choice programs and parent decisions on school quality and student outcomes are explored, along with the effects of gentrification on school composition. The podcast also delves into the balance between educational benefits and health risks during school closures amidst the COVID-19 pandemic.