EconTalk

Claudia Hauer, an author and educator affiliated with St. John's College and the Air Force Academy, dives into the lessons from the 'Iliad' and their relevance in modern warfare. She discusses the moral complexities soldiers face, the impact of technology on decision-making, and how classical literature can enrich military training. Hauer also emphasizes the need for civil discourse in education, highlighting how timeless themes resonate with today’s warriors and their healing processes.

Journalist and author Sebastian Junger shares insights from his book, focusing on a gripping 400-mile journey with friends that delves into freedom and interconnectedness. He discusses the joy and challenges of physical endurance while exploring how shared experiences create deep bonds. Junger highlights the complex dynamics of freedom versus community, particularly within marginalized groups, and reflects on the delicate balance between individual autonomy and societal responsibility. His observations on the fragility of civilization and humanity's inherent violence add depth to this thought-provoking conversation.

Anja Shortland, an economist and author from King's College London, dives into the captivating world of art theft and recovery. She discusses how stolen artworks re-enter the legitimate market, revealing the unseen complexities of provenance and ownership. Shortland highlights the critical role of the Art Loss Register in enhancing transparency and trust within the art market. Plus, she shares dramatic stories behind high-stakes negotiations and the evolving standards of authenticity that shape art valuation today.

Donald Shoup, a distinguished professor from UCLA and author of "The High Cost of Free Parking," dives into the hidden costs of parking policies. He argues that many regulations harm the economy and advocates for charging for curbside parking to fund neighborhood improvements. Shoup highlights success stories in urban areas that have embraced flexible parking solutions, boosting local businesses while reducing congestion. He also discusses how adjusting parking prices can enhance social equity and increase affordable housing options.

Ian Leslie, author of "Conflicted" and writer for "The Ruffian," discusses the power of productive disagreements. He argues that conflict can lead to innovative solutions and strengthen relationships, whether in business or personal life. Leslie emphasizes the importance of civil discourse and understanding emotional dynamics during conflicts. He also dives into cultural communication differences and the necessity of empathy for better dialogue. Ultimately, he believes that embracing conflict is key to collective intelligence and growth.

Bruce Meyer, McCormick Foundation Professor at the University of Chicago and expert on poverty, dives deep into the nuances of extreme poverty in the U.S. He challenges recent studies by highlighting flaws in survey data and assumptions. The discussion critiques traditional poverty metrics, critiques government welfare roles, and examines the hardships of minimum wage workers. Meyer also explores the complexities of economic mobility, emphasizing the need for targeted support systems over broad solutions like universal basic income.

Jason Riley, a journalist and author at The Wall Street Journal, delves into the complex issues surrounding race in America. He argues that challenges for Black communities extend beyond racial discrimination and critiques narratives shaped by activists and media. Discussing topics like police presence, he highlights a desire for greater safety in Black neighborhoods. Riley examines historical contexts of Black Americans, emphasizes the importance of family dynamics, and calls for educational reform to empower disadvantaged communities, advocating for a more nuanced understanding of race and policy.

Julia Galef, author of "The Scout Mindset" and host of "Rationally Speaking," discusses the vital distinction between the scout mindset, which seeks objective truth, and the soldier mindset, which defends pre-existing beliefs. She emphasizes the significance of self-awareness for personal growth and the courage to embrace uncertainty. Galef shares insights on navigating social interactions and making informed decisions, advocating for open-mindedness and respectful dialogue to foster deeper understanding across ideological divides.

Agnes Callard, a philosopher at the University of Chicago, sheds light on the complexities of anger as more than a reaction—she explores its moral implications and roots in personal values. The discussion navigates how anger intersects with social dynamics, particularly during the pandemic, and the delicate balance of provocation in philosophical discourse. Callard also addresses jealousy and forgiveness, illuminating their role in relationships while emphasizing the significance of empathy and dialogue in overcoming emotional challenges.

Katy Milkman, a behavioral scientist and author at the Wharton School, dives into the fascinating science behind changing our habits. She discusses strategies for overcoming willpower struggles and the importance of making desired behaviors enjoyable. The conversation highlights the 'fresh start effect' and the interplay between self-control and motivation. Milkman also addresses the complexities of behavioral research reliability and the profound impact of belief and peer influence on personal growth.