Freakonomics Radio

Michael Roth, the President of Wesleyan University, is known for his bold takes on higher education and free speech. He critiques the failures of university leadership amid rising anti-Semitism and the resignations of peers at prestigious institutions. Roth discusses the decline in trust in higher education, emphasizing the urgent need for moral leadership. He also explores the influence of Gulf donations on U.S. universities and the challenges faced in fostering genuine dialogue amidst political tensions and shifting generational perspectives.

In this engaging discussion, guest Scott Lilienfeld, a professor known for debunking psychological myths, teams up with Bibb Latané, a veteran social psychologist renowned for his work on bystander intervention. They delve into the nuances of commonly misused psychological terms, such as 'bystander apathy' and 'hard-wired'. Through the lens of the infamous Kitty Genovese case, they unravel the complexities of human behavior, emphasizing how societal perceptions can misguide our understanding of action and inaction in crises.

In a revealing conversation, Ivan Oransky, a doctor and co-founder of Retraction Watch, and Max Bazerman, a Harvard professor specializing in ethics, dissect the rampant issue of academic fraud. They discuss the overwhelming pressures within the $28 billion scholarly publishing industry that foster misconduct. The duo explores the challenges of accountability, the dangers of profit-driven practices in open-access publishing, and innovative solutions for enhancing transparency in research. Together, they uncover systemic issues that undermine trust in scientific integrity.

Max Bazerman, a Harvard professor known for his work in behavioral science, and Leif Nelson from UC Berkeley, who investigates research misconduct, dive into the troubling world of academic fraud. They reveal startling trends, including the retraction of 10,000 papers last year, and discuss famous scandals that have shaken public trust. The conversation exposes the pressures leading researchers to engage in unethical practices and the vital need for integrity in academia, all while blending humor with critical analysis.

Discover what millennials are doing to make their mark in the $7 billion greeting card industry. Uncover the surprising designs and evolving trends shaping how we connect. Learn about the journey of pizza boxes, from origin to modern efficiency, and how they impact your favorite slice. Delve into the world of personal injury law, revealing the fierce advertising battle and its implications for justice. This episode blends creativity, commerce, and legal drama into an engaging exploration of everyday economics.

Cat Bohannon, an evolution researcher and author of "Eve: How the Female Body Drove 200 Million Years of Human Evolution," shares captivating insights into how the female body shaped humanity. She discusses the significance of mother's milk and its historical complexities, the impact of wet nursing on fertility, and the maternal-fetal dynamics likened to trench warfare. Bohannon also explores gynecology's evolution, its role in women's health, and the shifting social structures from matriarchy to patriarchy, all while weaving in personal reflections on feminism.

Dive into the fascinating world of unfinished tasks and their impact on our minds. Discover the Zygarnik effect and how unresolved issues linger, affecting emotional health. The hosts share personal stories about miscommunication in relationships and the importance of closure. Explore the cultural concept of the 'Irish exit' and its psychological implications. They reflect on emotional regulation and discuss how empathy plays a crucial role in effective communication. Tune in for insights and relatable anecdotes!

Michael Lewis, bestselling author known for works like "Moneyball" and "The Big Short," provides a deep dive into the controversial figure of Sam Bankman-Fried, the face of the FTX scandal. He discusses the intense criticism of his portrayal in his recent book, "Going Infinite," and explains why he believes the critiques are misplaced. Lewis reveals what it was like to witness his book become a courtroom drama and explores the ethical dilemmas surrounding effective altruism, financial accountability, and the personal chaos of Bankman-Fried's inner circle.

Join Jens Ludwig, an economist and director of the Crime Lab at the University of Chicago, alongside Sandy Jo MacArthur, a curriculum design director for the Policing Leadership Academy and law enforcement training expert. They delve into the critical need for enhanced management training for police leaders, arguing that effective strategies can reduce gun violence. The discussion also highlights innovative approaches like integrating mental health professionals with law enforcement and emphasizes the importance of data-driven methods for community safety.

Brian Taylor, a UCLA urban planning professor, Janno Lieber, CEO of New York's MTA, and Michelle Wu, the Mayor of Boston, discuss the future of public transit. They debate the complex question of making public transportation free, detailing its potential to enhance economic opportunity and social mobility while benefiting the environment. Insights include the impact of fare-free systems on ridership, equity, and innovative funding solutions. The conversation challenges traditional views on transportation financing and sheds light on efforts toward climate justice.