EconTalk

Branko Milanovic, a prominent economist and author specializing in socioeconomic inequality, joins the discussion. He critiques the Nobel Prize’s narrow focus, advocating for recognition of broader, more unconventional economic research. The conversation touches on China’s economic rise, the historical legacies of slavery and colonialism, and the costs of oppression on talent and productivity. Milanovic also reflects on how literature can deepen our understanding of economics, urging a shift from mere commercialization to prioritizing human welfare in economic discussions.

Emily Oster, an economist and author from Brown University, dives into the data-driven reality of reopening schools during the pandemic. She shares her findings that schools aren't significant COVID super-spreaders, emphasizing the high costs of closures on student welfare. The discussion expands to the unique challenges faced by educators and parents alike, touching on equity in education and the emotional complexities of parenting during such tumultuous times. Oster offers insights on navigating medical advice while managing children's growing independence.

Philosopher Daniel Haybron, author of "Happiness: A Very Short Introduction" and a professor at St. Louis University, dives into the intricate nature of happiness. He discusses how happiness is more than just a feeling, emphasizing the importance of emotional connections and adaptability. The conversation critiques simplistic measures of happiness and explores cultural differences in emotional expression. Haybron also reflects on moral responsibilities in fostering community well-being and the significance of finding joy in mindful living.

Virginia Postrel, an author and journalist known for her insightful work on textiles, dives into the captivating history of fabrics and their impact on civilization. She reveals how the evolution of textile production mirrors societal progress, from manual labor to modern automation. The discussion touches on the art of dyeing and weaving, emphasizing their cultural significance. Postrel also explores how fabrics have historically symbolized social status, reflecting on the intricate relationship between textiles and human life through the ages.

In a captivating discussion, Steven Levitt, a renowned economist and co-author of Freakonomics, shares insights on the book's unexpected success and its cultural impact on popularizing economics. He discusses the complexities of public trust in science amid the pandemic and critiques the challenges within the academic reward system. Levitt also explores innovative approaches to criminal justice reform and the importance of clear communication in economics, underscoring how accessibility can foster understanding and support for the field.

Rob Wiblin, host of the 80,000 Hours podcast and effective altruism expert, dives into a thought-provoking conversation with Russ Roberts. They tackle the intricacies of charity and the difficulties in measuring its impact. Uncertainty in data becomes a central theme as they explore how it shapes our decisions in altruism and careers. They also discuss the moral complexities of societal contributions, the role of kindness, and the challenges of relying on institutional authority, all while analyzing the balance between individual and collective well-being.

Fredrik deBoer, an author and journalist known for his critical insights on the American education system, explores the limitations of traditional educational reforms like No Child Left Behind. He argues that innate abilities play a significant role in success, challenging the belief in equal opportunities. The discussion also highlights the impact of economic inequality on social mobility and self-worth, suggesting a radical rethinking of values and education. DeBoer advocates for a more compassionate approach that recognizes diverse talents beyond mere academic achievement.

Dwayne Betts, an accomplished author, lawyer, and poet, dives into his transformative experiences in prison and the life-changing power of books. He shares insights about his Million Book Project, which aims to enrich prisons with literature. Betts reflects on his turbulent youth and the impact of the justice system, illustrating how reading reshaped his identity. He also discusses the importance of curation for prison libraries and how classic literature fosters community connections, encouraging deeper conversations around race and resilience.

Journalist and author Anne Applebaum, celebrated for her Pulitzer Prize-winning insights into totalitarianism, delves into her latest work, Twilight of Democracy. She discusses the unsettling rise of populist and nationalist movements in both Eastern Europe and the West, unraveling their paradoxical appeal even as they threaten democratic values. Applebaum reflects on the emotional toll of political divisions and examines how technology has transformed communication, fueling both political engagement and authoritarianism.

Zena Hitz, a philosopher and author of 'Lost in Thought,' explores the transformative power of learning for its own sake. She critiques societal views on education and prestige, advocating for genuine learning as a personal journey. Hitz discusses the significance of self-knowledge and the depth of reading in a visual world, emphasizing critical thinking and storytelling. The conversation also highlights the importance of listening in fostering human connections and navigating distractions in modern learning, promoting deeper intellectual engagement and community.