Freakonomics Radio

Join former NFL player and sports analyst Domonique Foxworth, along with sports economist Victor Matheson, antitrust litigator Jeffrey Kessler, and sports executive Oliver Luck, as they explore the provocative idea of merging college and NFL football. They discuss the exploitation of student-athletes, groundbreaking legal battles transforming compensation rules, and the implications of a potential merger for the sports landscape. Get insights into the future of promotions, relegation, and how colleges might adapt their revenue structures.

Yuen Yuen Ang, a political scientist at Johns Hopkins University and author of "China's Gilded Age," dives into the intriguing parallels of corruption in the U.S. and China. She describes China as a corrupt meritocracy and explores how corruption evolves alongside development. Ang presents her corruption typology and discusses the impact of access money on economic outcomes. Comparing the U.S. and China's Gilded Ages, she highlights the similarities in access money, arguing for institutional changes to address underlying corruption issues.

In a fascinating discussion, Dan Wang, a research fellow at the Hoover Institution and author of 'Breakneck: China's Quest to Engineer the Future,' shares insights on the parallels between China and the U.S. He emphasizes the differences between China's engineering-centric governance and America's legalistic approach. Wang explores the implications of China's zero-COVID lockdowns and discusses technological advancements, manufacturing strategies, and policy lessons that could benefit the U.S. He also reflects on the identity and choices of Chinese expats.

Evelyn Forget, an economist from the University of Manitoba known for her research on poverty and health, discusses the merits of guaranteed basic income (GBI). She reflects on the Canadian Mincome experiment, revealing how it improved health and education outcomes. The conversation navigates the contentious debates surrounding GBI, especially in the context of technological job displacement. Forget also prompts listeners to rethink the nature of work and the necessity of a safety net in today's economy.

Kenneth Levin, a retired air traffic controller with 23 years of experience, shares behind-the-scenes insights into his high-pressure career, emphasizing the multitasking required in managing aircraft at high speeds. Ed Bolen, president of the National Business Aviation Association, discusses the vital role of general aviation in supporting various industries. The conversation delves into the urgent need for modernizing the air traffic control system, exploring the implications of a $12.5 billion funding boost and the ongoing challenges in enhancing safety and efficiency.

Ed Bastian, CEO of Delta Airlines, shares insights on the airline industry's view of air traffic control, emphasizing safety and modernization needs. Polly Trottenberg, former deputy secretary of transportation, discusses FAA operations challenges and the historical context of air traffic control. Economist John Strong highlights infrastructure issues and staffing shortages, urging investment in new technology. Dorothy Robyn advocates for corporatization of the FAA, addressing policy implications and the need for a more efficient air traffic system.

Patrick Deneen, a political philosopher at Notre Dame and author of 'Why Liberalism Failed,' dives into the waning appetite for the common good in America. He discusses the concept of 'aristopopulism' as a promising solution to revitalize community ties. Deneen critiques the role of media and highlights the pressures facing cultural institutions in a potentially second Trump administration. He also scrutinizes political identity in a polarized landscape, raising thought-provoking questions about representation and the influence of personal experiences on ideology.

Bjørn Andersen, a Norwegian fisherman and whale hunter, shares his unique perspective on the controversial practice of whaling. He discusses the ecological importance of whaling and its sustainability within the fishing industry. Andersen delves into the tensions between conservation efforts and traditional practices, questioning the priorities of environmental movements. He also reflects on the complexities of modern whaling techniques and the culinary uses of whale meat, offering an insightful and fresh take on a topic often shrouded in misunderstanding.

Hester Blum, a Professor of English specializing in oceanic literature, talks about the intricate links between whales and our environment. She discusses how whaling has shaped ecosystems and our understanding of diversity in both historic and modern workplaces. The conversation highlights the impact of pollution and renewable energy on whale populations, along with the enduring relevance of 'Moby Dick' in exploring life's complexities. Listeners are encouraged to embrace imperfection and find meaning in the intertwined narratives of nature and humanity.

Join Bjorn Basberg, a professor emeritus of economic history, and Jay Alabaster, an American journalist studying in Japan, as they dive into the controversial world of whaling. They explore why some countries, like Norway and Japan, continue this practice despite dwindling demand for whale products. Discover the rich historical context of whaling, the socio-economic factors influencing these traditions, and the complex interplay between conservation efforts and cultural significance. Alabaster shares insights from Taiji, revealing the nuanced perspectives in an ongoing debate.