EconTalk

Robert Pondiscio, an author and senior fellow at the Thomas B. Fordham Institute, shares his transformative experience at a Success Academy Charter School. He highlights the innovative approaches that lead low-income students to remarkable academic success. The conversation also addresses the complexities of educational equity, parental involvement, and the need for a well-rounded curriculum beyond just core subjects. Pondiscio challenges conventional perspectives on education reform and emphasizes the importance of structure in fostering effective learning environments.

Paul Romer, a distinguished economist and Nobel Laureate from NYU, shares his insights on navigating the COVID-19 pandemic. He argues for the urgent need to transition from lockdowns to effective testing solutions, emphasizing the role of innovative tests like the 'Jiffy Tube.' Romer highlights how relaxing regulations could create a supply chain for testing, aiding economic recovery. The discussion also covers labor market challenges, showcasing the emotional toll of job losses and the importance of government intervention to support workers.

Branko Milanovic, a prominent economist and author of 'Capitalism, Alone,' dives into the intricacies of capitalism in the U.S. and China. He explores the stark contrasts between liberal and political capitalism, revealing how these systems shape income inequality. Milanovic discusses the challenges of corruption in China and the nuances of individual choices that perpetuate wealth disparities. He also examines the commercialization of daily life, where familial roles are increasingly outsourced, emphasizing the broader societal implications of hyper-commercialization.

L.A. Paul, a Yale philosopher and author of "Transformative Experience," dives into the intriguing world of life-altering choices. She explores the philosophical challenges of irreversible transformations, such as becoming a vampire or choosing parenthood, and discusses the complexities of identity and decision-making. Through thought experiments and examples, L.A. emphasizes the importance of recognizing personal experiences and navigating moral dilemmas with epistemic humility. Her insights unravel how our experiences shape our values and self-perception in profound ways.

Alan Lightman, a physicist and author known for merging science with the humanities, explores profound themes with host Russ Roberts. They discuss how our bodies are made of stardust and the cosmic origins that connect us to the universe. Lightman delves into the relationship between science and faith, questioning conventional views on consciousness and belief. They also ponder the fleeting nature of meaning, the fate of Earth, and our quest for significance in an infinite cosmos. Together, they celebrate the intricate dance of existence and the search for understanding.

In a deep dive, Vinay Prasad, an oncologist and author, unpacks his book *Malignant*, shedding light on the disappointing realities of cancer drugs. He highlights the conflicts of interest in pharmaceutical pricing and the limited effectiveness of many approved treatments. Prasad critiques the U.S. healthcare system's focus on cost over true patient value and explores ethical dilemmas in medical research and drug approval. His call for reforms emphasizes the need for transparency and integrity to enhance patient trust and outcomes.

Ed Leamer, a UCLA economist, discusses the profound effects of work effort on inequality and the historical decline of manufacturing jobs on middle-class stability. He explores the widening income gap between high- and low-skilled workers and the implications of technology on job markets. Leamer argues for a reshaped education system that fosters personal exploration and mentorship. Additionally, he examines ethical concerns in academia and advocates for experiential learning to better equip students for a tech-driven economy.

Arnold Kling, an economist and author of 'The Three Languages of Politics,' shares his insights on the evolving political landscape. He discusses how modern media complicates political discourse and contributes to polarization. Kling emphasizes the importance of understanding diverse viewpoints and fostering empathic engagement. He highlights cultural activities as a means to bridge divides, the influence of populism, and the shifts in higher education's approach to intellectual discourse. His reflections call for a more nuanced dialogue amidst today's tribal politics.

Jenny Schuetz, a Fellow at the Brookings Institution, discusses the complexities of land use and housing. She highlights how zoning laws hinder real estate development and contribute to housing shortages. The challenges developers face with community opposition and bureaucratic hurdles are explored in detail. Schuetz critiques existing regulations that perpetuate inequality, especially affecting low-income communities. She also advocates for increasing housing supply and revises contrasting policies between cities like Paris and San Francisco, emphasizing the need for effective community engagement.

Azra Raza, an oncologist and author of "The First Cell," shares her insights on the stagnant progress in cancer treatment over the past five decades. She critiques traditional methods, advocating for a more holistic approach to cancer that considers individual complexities. Raza discusses the emotional aspects of patient care, highlighting the importance of listening and the often-unspoken challenges oncologists face. She also emphasizes the need for innovative research and compassionate engagement to truly understand and treat this multifaceted disease.