The discussion dives into the controversial tariffs introduced by Trump, questioning their supposed purpose of addressing trade imbalances. Tariff calculations reveal complexities that challenge the administration's claims. The podcast further examines the exclusion of service exports in trade calculations, shedding light on how countries can still thrive despite apparent deficits. Misconceptions about bilateral trade deficits are addressed, encouraging a broader perspective on global trade dynamics.

Lizzy McNeill, a correspondent specializing in economic issues, joins economist Duncan Weldon to debate whether one in four people in the UK is disabled. They delve into disability statistics and clarify the criteria for classification, challenging common perceptions. The conversation also touches on the broader economic implications of disability on the workforce, as well as government financial policies, providing insights into how these factors affect public spending and individual lives.

Discover the surprising twists in U.S.-Canada relations, as tariffs spark controversy and political tension. The discussion unpacks President Trump's claims of an exaggerated $200 billion subsidy and clarifies the true nuances of trade dynamics. Delve into the impact of a 25% tariff on Canadian car imports, and challenge misconceptions surrounding Canada’s role in the opioid crisis. By examining these critical issues, the conversation sheds light on the complexities of maintaining a strong border relationship amid growing economic friction.

The discussion kicks off with the proposed 2% wealth tax to potentially raise £24 billion, unpacking the numbers behind it. There’s a deep dive into why the UK has the oldest housing stock in Europe, linking it to the Industrial Revolution. The Office for National Statistics' recent valuation changes on pensions have stirred debate, knocking off £2 trillion from wealth estimates. Finally, the origins and flexible nature of Lent are explored, revealing fascinating historical insights.

Astronomers recently identified a potentially dangerous asteroid, 2024 YR4, measuring between 40 and 90 meters. Initially, the odds of it hitting Earth in 2032 spiked from 1% to 3%, igniting public concern. As Tim Harford discusses, tracking these celestial threats is essential, especially as probabilities can rapidly change. Historic asteroid encounters provide context for understanding the risks involved. The conversation emphasizes advancements in monitoring techniques, reinforcing the global need for vigilance against such cosmic dangers.

Lizzy McNeill, a reporter specializing in data analysis for news stories, joins the discussion to unravel the sharp increase in disability benefit claims in the UK, particularly post-pandemic. She highlights the impact of mental health issues and the cost of living crisis on this trend. The conversation also tackles controversial comparisons between the UK's and Russia's handling of free speech, emphasizing the need for accurate data. Additionally, they explore the deterioration of important statistical sources which complicate understanding societal trends.

The lockdown drastically altered children's lives, overshadowing their limited risk from COVID-19. Young students faced significant learning loss, with assessments revealing concerning declines in writing skills. Child development challenges intensified, especially for preschoolers, alongside rising school absenteeism rates. Mental health issues surged, with increased anxiety and loneliness among youth. Despite some recovery in educational progress, disparities remain, particularly affecting lower-income families, highlighting a widening achievement gap.

Exploring a viral map that ranks nations by average IQ, the discussion uncovers alarming disparities and the misinterpretations behind them. The analysis reveals that environmental factors, like malnutrition, play a crucial role in cognitive development. It also challenges the validity of standardized IQ tests across diverse populations, debunking myths that link intelligence to race. The complexities of measuring intelligence are laid bare, advocating for a more nuanced understanding of human cognitive abilities and warning against overgeneralizations.

The podcast tackles the intriguing claims surrounding the Department of Government Efficiency, debunking exaggerated fraud narratives. It dives deep into the surprising carbon footprint of New Zealand apples versus British ones, highlighting agricultural efficiency. Listeners learn about the reliability of migration statistics, specifically the claim about illegal immigrants in London, and uncover shocking errors in social security payments. Plus, the show critiques the impact of private school fees on inflation, emphasizing the importance of accurate data in social discourse.

Ellie Sacklet-Vala, Head of non-ferrous metal pricing at Argus Media, dives into the contentious topic of rare earth minerals in Ukraine. She unpacks the myth that there’s $500 billion worth waiting to be accessed, revealing the complexities of extraction. The discussion highlights Ukraine's mineral wealth beyond just rare earths and the geopolitical implications tied to these resources. Listeners gain insight into the feasibility of claims surrounding these deposits and the critical challenges faced in harnessing their potential.