EconTalk

Dana Gioia, a prominent poet and author of "Studying with Miss Bishop," discusses the paradox of poetry's waning significance in modern culture while highlighting its transformative power. He shares insights on mentorship, the connection between literature and personal emotions, and the impact of aging on creativity. The conversation delves into the importance of aligning artistic endeavors with personal values, and reflects on poignant moments like Amanda Gorman's inaugural poem, revealing how poetry can serve as a beacon of resilience and meaning in our lives.

Lamorna Ash, an author and anthropologist, shares her unique experiences in Newlyn, a small fishing village in Cornwall. She recounts life on trawlers, revealing the camaraderie and cultural significance of fishing. Ash discusses the emotional and physical toll of the profession, alongside the complexities of fishing quotas and sustainability post-Brexit. Her reflections on identity, community ties, and the challenges of representing others in writing add depth to her narrative, showcasing how simple connections can lead to profound insights.

Michael McCullough, a psychologist at UC San Diego and author of *The Kindness of Strangers*, discusses the evolutionary roots of human empathy and altruism. He explores why we care for strangers, tracing back to genetic predispositions and cultural influences. The conversation highlights how social norms shape our ethics and the complex dynamics of charitable giving. McCullough also examines the relationship between morality, happiness, and the impact of public policy on personal choices, advocating for a deeper understanding of kindness in society.

Scott Newstok, an author and professor at Rhodes College, shares insights on education and creativity influenced by Shakespeare. He discusses the timeless relevance of Shakespeare's works, emphasizing their emotional depth and role in fostering critical thinking. Newstok highlights the educational value of engaging with classic texts and the playful flexibility of language inspired by humanism. He also connects the worlds of mathematics and literature, advocating for a holistic understanding of both to enhance personal engagement in learning.

Gary Shiffman, an economist and author of "The Economics of Violence," explores the intersection of economics and violence, drawing from his unique background as a former U.S. Navy officer and national security advisor. He argues that terrorism and crime are often entrepreneurial ventures, driven by personal expression rather than ideology. Through captivating case studies, he rethinks identity labels in organized violence and discusses the dual roles of notorious figures like Pablo Escobar as both criminals and social providers.

Don Boudreaux, an economist from George Mason University, dives deep into the impactful work of Nobel laureate James Buchanan. He explores public choice theory, revealing how economic principles apply to political behavior. Boudreaux discusses Buchanan's contrarian views on markets and the notion of life as an ongoing process rather than a mere series of problems. The conversation also touches on ethics in economics, emphasizing human identity and the importance of institutional frameworks in personal transformation.

Matthew Crawford, an insightful author and senior fellow at the University of Virginia, delves into the multifaceted relationship between humans and technology. He discusses the thrill of embracing serendipity while driving, and how structured planning stifles spontaneity. Crawford critiques technology's impact on individual autonomy through the lens of self-driving cars, exploring the erosion of communal knowledge in the digital age. He also reflects on the loneliness fostered by modern bureaucracy, illuminating the complex terrain of trust and cooperation in our increasingly automated lives.

In a fascinating conversation, author Michael Blastland explores themes from his book, "The Hidden Half." He discusses how deeper investigation into various fields reveals the limits of our understanding. Blastland highlights the impact of unseen factors on decision-making and the unpredictability of life. By examining biases and the role of randomness, he argues for a humble approach to knowledge. From medical uncertainties to the nuances of community contexts, he emphasizes embracing complexity rather than oversimplifying our understanding.

Jay Bhattacharya, a Stanford University professor and co-author of the Great Barrington Declaration, discusses a controversial approach to pandemic management. He argues for focused protection of vulnerable populations while allowing low-risk individuals to return to normalcy. The conversation critiques the economic and mental costs of lockdowns, highlights the neglected long-term health risks of COVID-19, and emphasizes the importance of diverse opinions in public health discourse. Bhattacharya advocates for a balanced approach, valuing transparency and accurate data in guiding future health responses.

Katherine Levine Einstein, a political scientist at Boston University and author of Neighborhood Defenders, dives into the complexities of affordable housing. She explores the role of 'neighborhood defenders' who resist new developments, challenging the notion that they're merely selfish. The podcast reveals how community opposition often masks deeper biases and impedes housing progress. Einstein also discusses the dynamics of volunteer decision-making in local governance and critiques existing regulations that complicate housing efforts, advocating for clearer policies.