EconTalk

Sam Harris, a renowned neuroscientist and philosopher, delves into the worrying rise of anti-Semitism in the West and critiques institutional responses, particularly in academia. He discusses the complexities of the Israel-West dynamic amidst radical Islam and the influence of Qatari funding. Harris also highlights the bravery of ex-Muslims who confront severe risks in sharing their stories. The conversation navigates the moral dilemmas of confronting radical ideologies, emphasizing the necessity for empathy, civil discourse, and a deeper understanding of these urgent issues.

In a heartfelt conversation, neuroscientist Erik Hoel shares his insights on the transformative power of parenting. He argues that becoming a parent can enhance emotional richness and counteract jadedness. Hoel discusses how different parenting styles shape children's personalities and dives into the world of children's literature, sharing both beloved and critiqued classics. The challenges of elite education and concerns around homeschooling are also examined, emphasizing the impact of societal pressures on modern parents and their pursuit of meaning.

Diana Schaub, a political scientist from Loyola University Maryland and author of "His Greatest Speeches: How Lincoln Moved the Nation," delves into the timeless lessons from Abraham Lincoln's speeches. She discusses the importance of Lincoln's Second Inaugural Address in confronting America's legacy of slavery and his nuanced warnings about threats to democracy in his Lyceum Speech. Schaub also highlights Lincoln's call for thoughtful governance and civic responsibility, advocating for a revival of eloquence in political discourse inspired by Lincoln's powerful rhetoric.

Mark Helprin, a renowned novelist celebrated for works like Winter's Tale, dives into the transformative experience of war and the bonds forged between soldiers. He shares insights from his military service that shaped his novel, The Oceans and the Stars, addressing themes of leadership and love amidst conflict. The conversation also navigates Israel's geopolitical challenges, the joy of the editing process, and reflections on American culture's struggles with resilience. Helprin's literary journey unveils the profound influence of classic literature on his storytelling.

Eugene Kontorovich, a constitutional and international law expert at George Mason University, dismantles the idea that Israel is an occupying force in the West Bank by asserting that legal claims negate the notion of occupation. He discusses the intricate legal landscape since the Oslo Accords and analyzes the implications of Israel's potential annexation of the West Bank. With a focus on the moral dilemmas and the historical complexities surrounding territorial disputes, Kontorovich explores legal rights, governance models, and the challenges of Palestinian self-determination.

Cynthia Haven, a Stanford University scholar and author of the first biography of René Girard, dives deep into Girard's provocative theories. She discusses mimesis, arguing that our desires often stem from imitating others, which can lead to rivalry and conflict. The conversation explores how religion helps manage chaos, the power of forgiveness to break the cycle of violence, and the complexities of personal faith versus institutional belief. Haven also shares personal anecdotes that illuminate Girard’s warmth and insightful mind.

Michael Munger, an economist at Duke University renowned for his insights on public choice theory, discusses the complex interplay between market failure and government intervention. He highlights the often-overlooked concept of government failure and questions whether interventions truly outperform market outcomes. Munger examines decision-making in healthcare, advocating for a balance between democratic values and expert governance. He critiques bureaucratic efficiency perceptions and emphasizes the need for innovative solutions beyond traditional government or market roles.

Yuval Levin, Director of social, cultural, and constitutional studies at the American Enterprise Institute, delves into how the Constitution can unify a divided nation. He discusses the founding principles that encourage collaboration despite differences and examines the vital roles of mechanisms like the Electoral College. Levin argues that the Constitution's competitive nature can help mitigate polarization while promoting the protection of minority rights. He emphasizes the importance of maintaining social norms for a stable democracy and redefines unity as cooperation over consensus.

Dwayne Betts, a poet and lawyer who founded the Freedom Reads Project, shares his profound journey from incarceration to empowerment through literature. He reflects on the emotional impact of Martin Luther King Jr.'s "Letter from Birmingham Jail," emphasizing its urgency and relevance to today's social issues. Betts highlights the moral obligation to confront unjust laws and the transformative power of education. He also discusses his mission to inspire hope in prisons, illustrating the deep connection between literature and healing.

In this compelling conversation, Vinay Prasad, an oncologist and epidemiology professor at UCSF, dissects the COVID vaccine rollout. He highlights the significant mistakes made in public health communication and implementation. Prasad critiques the adverse effects of school closures on disadvantaged children and addresses the ethical complexities of vaccine trials. He also examines the interplay between political influences and health policies, all while stressing the importance of transparency and public trust in guiding future health initiatives.