Freakonomics Radio

Kelly Shue, a finance professor at Yale, critiques ESG investing, arguing it primarily benefits already green firms while leaving polluters without support for transformation. Chris James, founder of Engine No. 1, shares insights on effectively engaging firms like ExxonMobil to foster sustainability. Tony Will from CF Industries discusses his company's decarbonization efforts, highlighting government support in achieving greener practices. Together, they unravel the complexities of ESG investing and the need for targeted strategies to drive real environmental change.

Dahlia Lithwick, a Senior legal correspondent at Slate Magazine, Chris Tyndale, a philosophy professor specializing in argumentation, and Eugene Volokh, a prominent legal scholar from UCLA, dive into the slippery slope argument. They investigate its application in gun control, abortion, and drug legalization debates. The conversation dissects whether these fears are valid or merely emotional reactions, while exploring historical instances like smoking regulations. They also discuss the media's role in sensationalizing these arguments, highlighting the nuanced impacts on public perception and policy.

Ari Emanuel, CEO of Endeavor and master negotiator, shares his journey from a small talent agency to a global sports and entertainment powerhouse. He recounts the fierce competition with his brothers and how childhood experiences fueled his ambition. Emanuel dives into the complexities of UFC broadcasting deals, especially during the pandemic. He also tackles the evolving interplay between sports and AI, discussing ethical challenges in the industry. With passion and candor, he emphasizes the importance of resilience, adaptability, and the fight against indifference.

Al Roth, a Nobel laureate in economics known for his innovative work in market design, joins altruistic kidney donor Ned Brooks, who sparked a donation chain and founded the National Kidney Donation Organization. They discuss how traditional markets fail for sensitive transactions like organ transplants. Roth shares insights on modernizing organ donation systems, the challenges of kidney supply versus demand, and the life-changing impact of matching algorithms. Brooks' personal journey highlights the emotional power of altruism in saving lives.

Patricia Allen, a curator from Glasgow Museums focused on repatriation, and Lonnie G. Bunch III, Secretary of the Smithsonian, explore the ethical landscape of museums today. They discuss the colonial legacy of looted artifacts, particularly the Benin bronzes, and the complexities of returning these treasures. Their conversation highlights the need for museums to engage with social justice issues and cultural sensitivity, advocating innovative solutions that prioritize collaboration and community involvement in the repatriation process.

Dan Hicks, a contemporary archaeology professor and curator at the Pitt Rivers Museum, joins David Frum from The Atlantic, Nigerian artist Victor Ihamenor, and art historian Bénédicte Savoie to discuss the complexities of repatriating the Benin Bronzes. They delve into the moral dilemmas of looted artifacts, the cultural significance of these treasures, and how colonialism affects current restitution debates. The conversation challenges listeners to reconsider museum practices and the ethical implications of cultural heritage preservation.

Matthew Bogdanos, an Assistant District Attorney and chief of New York's Antiquities Trafficking Unit, joins economist Jim Marone and law professor Patti Gerstenblith. They unravel the perplexing journey of a looted Egyptian gold coffin to the Metropolitan Museum of Art, emphasizing the ethics of art ownership. Discussions reveal how Kim Kardashian influenced cultural restitution efforts. The trio dives into the complex market of looted antiquities, shedding light on the legal challenges and moral dilemmas facing museums and art collectors today.

Discover why your projects often face delays and budget overruns. Explore the infamous Second Avenue subway project as a case study in chronic delays. Learn about the planning fallacy and how cognitive biases, like optimism and overconfidence, can skew your timelines. Gain insights on effective time management strategies and the importance of realistic expectations. Delve into unintended consequences in project management and how data-driven approaches can mitigate inefficiencies. Turn your project challenges into successes!

Join linguistics professor John McWhorter, psychological expert Timothy Jay, and author Melissa Moore as they dive into the fascinating world of swearing. They discuss how taboo language evolves, reflecting cultural shifts over time. Swearing isn’t just frustration; it has emotional depth and can even strengthen social bonds. The trio shares insights on the physiological effects of cursing, from its historical roots to its modern-day significance. Plus, discover how certain swears could symbolize honesty in communication.

Hal Weitzman, author of "What's the Matter with Delaware?" and a University of Chicago faculty member, discusses Delaware's unique allure to corporations. He explores its lenient incorporation laws, which draw in businesses seeking anonymity and tax benefits. Weitzman addresses the state’s role in facilitating both legitimate ventures and questionable activities. The conversation raises critical questions about transparency, the efficiency of Delaware’s legal system, and the influence of its Chancery Court, highlighting a complex relationship between corporate interests and democratic principles.