Freakonomics Radio

In this engaging conversation, Steven Pinker, a Harvard psychologist and linguist, discusses the dichotomy of human progress that frustrates both ends of the political spectrum. He delves into the rational discourse needed to tackle climate change, emphasizing the importance of scientific understanding. The chat also navigates the evolution of morality from ancient texts to modern values, alongside a witty exploration of language complexities and learning challenges that bring people together.

Jason Robbins, CEO of DraftKings, and Victor Matheson, a sports economist at Holy Cross, dive into the explosive growth of sports betting following a landmark Supreme Court decision. They discuss how this huge market, previously dominated by the black market, is entering the mainstream. The duo shares insights on the transformation of fan engagement through daily fantasy sports and the implications for state revenues. They also highlight the importance of integrity in gambling, examining potential corruption and the role of data analytics in ensuring fair play.

Kate Raworth, a renegade economist and author of Doughnut Economics, challenges the traditional focus on GDP, arguing it's detrimental to people and the planet. Joining her is Marike van Doornik, Amsterdam’s Deputy Mayor, who talks about implementing the doughnut model in urban development. They discuss the urgent need for sustainable economic frameworks that prioritize well-being and environmental health. With Amsterdam adopting innovative practices, they highlight the balance between human needs and ecological sustainability in shaping the future.

Shane Hamilton, an American historian, and Peter Timmer, a retired Harvard economist, dive into the surprising role of supermarkets in shaping U.S. agricultural policy during the Cold War. They explore how supermarkets became symbols of capitalist abundance, contrasting starkly with Soviet scarcity. The conversation reveals the hidden costs of agricultural policies, from industrial meat production to their effects on family farms. Listeners will contemplate the far-reaching implications of these changes on today’s food landscape and consumer behavior.

Michael Greenstone, former chief economist for President Obama, and Gretchen Daly, a Stanford biology professor, delve into the economics of saving the Amazon rainforest. They discuss the urgent impact of deforestation, emphasizing financial incentives over moral appeals for conservation. The duo explores innovative economic models that value ecosystem services and propose subsidizing local ranchers to align economic needs with ecological sustainability. Their conversation highlights that preserving the Amazon not only protects the environment but could also be more profitable than traditional agriculture.

Glenn Lowry and Derek Hamilton, both esteemed economists, dive deep into the complex world of reparations. They discuss America’s racial wealth gap, highlighting the historical injustices that still affect Black families. The two tackle the challenges of defining reparations, advocating for innovative solutions like Baby Bonds to invest in future generations. They also emphasize the need for Black ownership and address the hurdles Black entrepreneurs face in emerging markets like cannabis. This thought-provoking conversation navigates moral considerations and practical solutions for equity.

Economists Stefan Shemansky and Derek Hamilton, along with historian Richard Rothstein, delve into the pressing topic of the racial wealth gap in America. They discuss historical injustices and how systemic discrimination, including government-sponsored segregation, has contributed to current disparities. The conversation touches on the need for reparations and examines the legacy of inequities in sports, notably FIFA's treatment of women's soccer. They advocate for nuanced solutions to address these deep-rooted challenges.

Christina Romer, a leading economist and former chair of President Obama's Council of Economic Advisors, dives deep into the lessons learned from past economic crises. She compares the COVID-19 pandemic's impacts with those of the Great Depression and the 2008 recession. Romer discusses the necessity of federal support during downturns and emphasizes the importance of historical insights for future recovery strategies. She also highlights the dynamic nature of the U.S. economy and the importance of optimism amid ongoing challenges.

Maria Konnikova, a psychologist from Columbia University and author of The Biggest Bluff, shares her fascinating transition from novice to poker pro. She reveals how poker's unpredictability mirrors life's challenges, emphasizing decision-making and resilience. Listeners learn about the psychological nuances of navigating luck and skill while drawing parallels to real life. With anecdotes from her journey, Konnikova discusses the role of deception and confidence in both poker and personal interactions, offering profound insights into human behavior.

Rebecca Kurth, an associate professor of clinical medicine, shares her firsthand experiences with telehealth amid the pandemic. Chad Elamoodle, a urologist and telehealth innovator, discusses its lasting impact on patient care. Economist David Cutler reveals the economic implications of this healthcare shift. They explore how telehealth transformed accessibility, the challenges faced by providers, and the potential for AI to enhance future medical visits, all while contemplating the sustainability of these new practices in the U.S. healthcare system.