EconTalk
Russ Roberts
EconTalk: Conversations for the Curious is an award-winning weekly podcast hosted by Russ Roberts of Shalem College in Jerusalem and Stanford's Hoover Institution. The eclectic guest list includes authors, doctors, psychologists, historians, philosophers, economists, and more. Learn how the health care system really works, the serenity that comes from humility, the challenge of interpreting data, how potato chips are made, what it's like to run an upscale Manhattan restaurant, what caused the 2008 financial crisis, the nature of consciousness, and more. EconTalk has been taking the Monday out of Mondays since 2006. All 900+ episodes are available in the archive. Go to EconTalk.org for transcripts, related resources, and comments.
Episodes
Mentioned books
Apr 27, 2020 • 1h 21min
Alan Lightman on Stardust, Meaning, Religion, and Science
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.
Apr 20, 2020 • 1h 18min
Vinay Prasad on Cancer Drugs, Medical Ethics, and Malignant
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.
Apr 13, 2020 • 1h 14min
Ed Leamer on Manufacturing, Effort, and Inequality
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.
Apr 6, 2020 • 1h 3min
Arnold Kling on the Three Languages of Politics, Revisited
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.
13 snips
Mar 30, 2020 • 1h 15min
Jenny Schuetz on Land Regulation and the Housing Market
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.
Mar 23, 2020 • 1h 25min
Azra Raza on The First Cell
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.
Mar 19, 2020 • 1h 20min
Tyler Cowen on the COVID-19 Pandemic
In a compelling discussion, Tyler Cowen, an economist from George Mason University and the voice behind the Marginal Revolution blog, dives deep into the COVID-19 pandemic’s political, social, and economic ramifications. He analyzes the evolving dynamics of daily life during lockdowns and the emotional toll of isolation. Cowen critiques government responses, debates the efficacy of financial stimulus, and explores the pandemic's lasting impacts on education and public health. He emphasizes the importance of maintaining genuine social connections amid a digital shift.
Mar 16, 2020 • 1h 18min
Isabella Tree on Wilding
Isabella Tree, a renowned author and conservationist, shares her inspiring journey of transforming Knepp Castle Estate into a vibrant ecosystem. She discusses the challenges of shifting from conventional farming to rewilding, emphasizing the ecological benefits of restoring native species and megafauna. Tree highlights the complex dynamics of managing herbivores and the financial aspects of sustainable practices. The conversation encapsulates a deep connection between humans and nature, envisioning a hopeful future where wildlife thrives alongside us.
Mar 9, 2020 • 2h 5min
Richard Davies on Extreme Economies
Richard Davies, an economist and author of "Extreme Economies," shares his insights on economies in extreme situations. He explores the underground economies in Angola's penitentiary, where inmates barter with ramen noodles amid harsh conditions. The discussion shifts to contrasting refugee camps in Jordan, highlighting how policy affects personal agency. Davies also delves into the economic disparities in the Darien Gap and the historical complexities of the Congo. His experiences reveal resilience and innovation in the face of adversity.
24 snips
Mar 2, 2020 • 1h 9min
Yuval Levin on A Time to Build
In this conversation, Yuval Levin, a political scientist and author, examines the declining trust in American institutions. He argues that individuals now see these institutions as platforms for personal gain rather than as guiding entities. The shift towards performative professionalism, particularly in academia and media, is highlighted, along with the impact of social media on collective efforts and community bonds. Levin shares insights on restoring trust and embracing personal responsibility to foster collaboration and a sense of common purpose.
