New Books in Economics

Allen B. Downey, a principal data scientist and author, delves into the importance of statistical thinking and its real-world applications. He uncovers the friendship paradox, highlighting how we often perceive ourselves as having fewer friends than our peers. Downey addresses sampling bias with concerning examples, such as inflated recidivism rates. He also critiques the 10,000-hour rule for expertise and explains how misinterpreting data has led to misleading policies. Overall, he emphasizes the need for better data literacy in society.

Michael Glass, an assistant professor of history at Boston College, explores the hidden complexities of suburban America in his latest work. He discusses how debt and speculation shaped the post-war suburban dream, revealing that homeownership and education weren't just privileges but commodities tied to financial strains and racial segregation. Glass shares personal narratives that highlight these systemic failures and how Black homeowners faced predatory practices. His insights redefine our understanding of suburban prosperity and emphasize the need for policy reform.

Richard Duncan, an economist and author with a robust background in investment strategy and global finance, presents his vision for America's economic future. He discusses the importance of massive government investment in technology to foster a new revolution that enhances U.S. wealth and geopolitical standing. Duncan also explores the creation and role of the Federal Reserve, the factors behind the 2021 inflation surge, and offers insights on the dollar standard's resilience amid trade deficits. His pragmatic approach to economic policy challenges conventional dogma.

Join sociologists Bernadette C. Barton, Barbara G. Brents, and Angela N. Jones as they dive into the complexities of modern sex work. They discuss how the internet has revolutionized erotic labor, from camming to AI sex dolls. The conversation highlights the diverse experiences of sex workers, addressing pressing issues like empowerment versus exploitation. They also emphasize the importance of intersectionality in understanding race, gender, and class dynamics within the industry, advocating for labor-focused rights and policies.

John L. Campbell, a retired sociology professor and author of "Pay Up!: Conservative Myths About Tax Cuts for the Rich," explores critical misconceptions about taxation. He debunks conservative claims that high taxes harm the economy, illustrating through cross-national comparisons that higher taxes can actually boost public investment and social equity. Campbell also challenges narratives about government waste and unfairness, arguing that tax revenues support essential services. His insights highlight the real benefits of taxation in promoting societal welfare and economic growth.

J. Doyne Farmer, Director of the Complexity Economics Program at the Institute for New Economic Thinking, discusses his book, Making Sense of Chaos. He explores the shortcomings of traditional economic models and advocates for complexity economics, utilizing agent-based simulations. Farmer explains key concepts like bounded rationality and emergence, and how they can lead to more accurate predictions. He emphasizes the importance of data-first approaches and how these insights can help policymakers address pressing challenges like climate change and economic stability.

Edward Fishman, a former U.S. State Department sanctions expert and author, delves into the realm of economic warfare, detailing how the U.S. uses sanctions and economic tools to combat geopolitical challenges like Russia's aggression and Iran's nuclear ambitions. He explains the significance of dollar dominance and high-end technology as new chokepoints in this modern conflict. Fishman also discusses the impact of deglobalization on businesses and his ongoing research into digital currencies and tech decoupling, providing insights into the future of economic power.

In this engaging conversation, social anthropologist Xiang Biao delves into his groundbreaking book, advocating for intellectual activism among China's youth. He shares insights on bridging theory with real-life experiences, emphasizing the importance of local conflicts in fostering societal change. Joined by journalist Wu Qi, they discuss the transformative power of public engagement and how various institutions shape intellectual discourse. The talk touches on the need to remember collective traumas while navigating ambition and uncertainty in everyday life.

Susan Erikson, a medical anthropologist and expert in health political economy, dives into her book, exploring the unsettling world of pandemic bonds. She reveals how international bankers turn health crises into lucrative investments, often prioritizing profit over public good. Erikson uncovers the design flaws and troubling triggers of these bonds that hinder timely responses to outbreaks. With insights gained from extensive global research, she extends her critique toward future financial risks, including environmental factors and AI modeling.

Explore the fascinating origins of eco-development, an idea brought to life by an unlikely partnership between an oil man and a socialist. Discover how they forged a global consensus at the UN, blending capitalism with sustainability. Delve into the significant impacts of the 1972 Stockholm conference and the influential Brundtland Commission's vision for a unified future. The podcast also addresses critiques and the evolving landscape of sustainable development, questioning whether such dreams can truly coexist with economic growth.