EconTalk

Michael Morris is a cultural psychologist and author of "Tribal," specializing in the impact of cultural instincts on group dynamics. He discusses the nuanced role of tribalism in democracy, suggesting it can unite rather than divide us. Morris shares intriguing examples from sports and leadership, demonstrating how understanding cultural instincts can transform teams and organizations. He also explores the importance of traditions and rituals in maintaining social cohesion, alongside the challenges posed by tribalism in the digital age.

Michael Munger, a Duke University economics professor, delves into the profound yet overlooked ideas of Bruno Leoni, a political philosopher credited with inspiring thinkers like Hayek. They discuss Leoni's impactful contributions to law and economics amidst historical challenges, as well as the tragic circumstances of his early death. The conversation also explores judicial philosophies, the evolutionary nature of law, and the concept of community responsibility, highlighting how Leoni's insights resonate with contemporary societal norms and ethics.

Join award-winning science writer Jennifer Ackerman, author of 'What an Owl Knows,' as she unravels the mysteries of owls. Discover how they hunt and their fascinating adaptations for survival. Learn why their eyes are positioned forward and how trained dogs can help locate rare owl species. Ackerman also discusses the significance of dead trees for biodiversity and sheds light on the 'Harry Potter effect' on public perceptions of owls. These insights reveal not just the biology of these captivating creatures, but also our complex relationship with them.

Dr. Marty Makary, a renowned surgeon and author from Johns Hopkins, uncovers the flaws in modern healthcare practices. He discusses the paradox surrounding peanut allergies, revealing how avoidance has worsened them. Makary challenges the longstanding norms of hormone replacement therapy, advocating for a reevaluation of medical dogmas. He also tackles the overprescription of antibiotics and urges for evidence-based reforms in surgical practices. With a focus on humility and independent thinking, he calls for a revolution in how we approach patient care.

Andrew Fox, a military strategist and former British Army officer, shares his insights after spending a week with the Israel Defense Forces in Gaza. He discusses the IDF's impressive control of the territory and the staggering physical devastation he witnessed. Fox analyzes Israel's military strategy, balancing the fight against Hamas with the need to minimize civilian casualties. He also addresses the complexities of narratives surrounding the conflict, the humanitarian situation in Gaza, and the emotional implications of the ongoing strife, providing a nuanced perspective on a deeply divisive issue.

Richard Reeves, President of the American Institute for Boys and Men, dives into critical issues affecting boys and men in America. He discusses the troubling educational disparities where boys lag behind girls in literacy and academic performance. Reeves highlights the need for reform in the education system, including considerations for male representation among teachers. He explores the evolving definitions of masculinity and fatherhood, emphasizing the importance of community involvement and developing intangible skills for success in today's workforce.

J. Doyne Farmer, a physicist and professor at Oxford, champions a revolutionary approach to economics through complexity science. He critiques traditional models for failing to capture human behavior and proposes more dynamic models that can better predict economic phenomena. The conversation touches on the impact of lending policies on the housing bubble and parallels between weather and economic forecasting. Farmer emphasizes the need for interdisciplinary dialogue to bridge gaps in economic thought, pushing for a future where complexity economics is more widely accepted.

In this discussion, physician Adam Cifu, a professor at the University of Chicago known for his blog Sensible Medicine, delves into the emotional complexities of being a doctor. He shares his practice of memorializing patients in a binder, highlighting the human side of medicine. Key topics include the importance of empathy in doctor-patient relationships, the balance between data and intuition in diagnosing, and the emotional toll medicine takes on healthcare professionals. Cifu’s insights reflect a mindful approach to the art of healing.

In this thought-provoking discussion, sculptor Sabin Howard shares insights from his work on the upcoming World War I Memorial in Washington, D.C. He reflects on the emotional complexities of war and the power of art to convey the human experience. Howard critiques modern art's shock-value trend, advocating for a return to classical techniques. He passionately discusses the intricate process of transforming clay into bronze and the importance of memorials in honoring sacrifices, emphasizing art's role in fostering unity and understanding amidst tragedy.

Economist Noah Smith, known for his insights on poverty and economic development, discusses the never-ending battle against poverty. He likens poverty to an elemental foe and emphasizes the importance of technological progress in combating it. Smith critiques the nostalgia for past eras, arguing that life wasn't necessarily better, and expresses skepticism towards the degrowth movement for its potential to undermine advancements. The conversation also touches on the paradox of modern economic development and the importance of maintaining human connections in a tech-driven world.