More or Less

Ignacio Palacios-Huerta, a Professor of Economics at the London School of Economics, explores how sports illustrate economic theories. He discusses loss aversion using golf as an example, demonstrating how psychological factors can influence decision-making. Delving into discrimination in baseball, he highlights the benefits of inclusive hiring practices. Ignacio also examines the psychology behind penalty kicks, revealing how randomness and player tendencies shape outcomes. This intersection of sports and economics provides a unique lens on competitive behavior.

In this episode, reporter Bethan Ashmead Latham investigates whether older drivers are indeed more dangerous on the roads, revealing surprising statistics that debunk common myths. Elizabeth Webb from Age UK discusses the serious implications of cuts to winter fuel payments and their potential link to increased elderly mortality. Neil Strong shares insights on how the autumn leaves wreak havoc on railway lines, detailing the staggering claim that Southeastern Railway clears 50 million leaves each year. It's a blend of intriguing stats and vital societal questions!

Join data scientist Bastian Harre from Our World in Data as he unpacks Donald Trump's bold comparisons of violent crime between the US and Venezuela. They delve into the stark differences in homicide rates, revealing Venezuela's rate is three times higher than the US. The discussion highlights the complexities of crime data interpretation and the reliability of FBI statistics over time. With insights on trends and missing data, Harre provides a nuanced perspective that challenges political narratives and enhances our understanding of crime across borders.

Nathan Gower and Bethan Ashmead Latham, both reporters for More or Less, dissect the complexities of US crime statistics, highlighting gaps in high-crime city data and the political ramifications. Dr. Aaron Advani tackles misconceptions about capital gains tax while Dr. Frank Van Manen shares fascinating insights on grizzly bears' diets, especially their impressive buffalo berry consumption during hyperphagia. The discussion also touches on mental health issues linked to GP suicides, emphasizing the importance of accurate data and preventative measures.

Explore the intriguing question of why some countries are wealthier than others. Discover how institutions play a crucial role in economic success, especially when comparing Western Europe and sub-Saharan Africa. Delve into the impact of colonialism and disease on development, revealing lasting effects on those regions. Finally, examine the complexities of China's rapid growth and the debate surrounding its economic sustainability amidst varying expert opinions.

Join Chris Mason, BBC's political editor, as he hilariously navigates live math challenges. Mathematician Rob Easterway offers clever tips for mental arithmetic, while Jack Fenwick clarifies myths about the UK's super-rich tax rates. Dan Needle sheds light on the complexities of high-income taxation and its implications. They dive into rising water bills versus industry claims, and discuss the impressive impact of HPV vaccinations on cervical cancer rates, showcasing how statistics shape our understanding of pressing issues.

Professor Sir David Spiegelhalter, an esteemed Emeritus Professor of Statistics at the University of Cambridge, discusses the art of conveying uncertainty and probability. He debunks the myth of double-yolked eggs, revealing they aren't as rare as many believe. Sir David shares insights on effective communication during crises, referencing the Bay of Pigs invasion and the lessons from the financial models after 2008. He emphasizes the need for transparency and humility in decision-making, especially in political discourse.

In this engaging discussion, BBC reporter Charlotte MacDonald shares insights on the alarming statistic of 35 million birds dying from glass collisions in the UK. Research economist Ben Zaranco tackles the complexities in government fiscal policies and the potential for changes in debt rules. Meanwhile, Professor Sir David Spiegelhalter reflects on the randomness of existence, contemplating the peculiar factors surrounding his own conception. They also dissect childhood obesity trends, questioning measurement methodologies and their implications.

Krista Swanson, Chief Economist for the Corn Growers Association, and Margaret Smith, Professor of Plant Breeding at Cornell University, dive into America's staggering corn consumption. They dissect the claim of 672 billion pounds of corn eaten annually, revealing that much of this figure includes corn used for biofuel and animal feed. The duo humorously navigates the complexities of corn's journey from field to food, highlighting the overwhelming presence of corn derivatives like high-fructose corn syrup in our diets, all while re-evaluating the stats that shape our understanding of this essential crop.

Louise Murphy, a Senior Economist at the Resolution Foundation, dives into pressing economic topics. She discusses the surprising decline in working hours among UK GPs and its implications for healthcare. The conversation also highlights Wetherspoon's questionable tax contributions and the broader issues of economic inactivity in the UK post-pandemic. Additionally, the podcast takes a quirky turn, exploring how two rats can exponentially multiply to 17 octillion, showcasing the absurdity of statistical projections and the real-world factors at play.