The David McWilliams Podcast
David McWilliams & John Davis
The aim of this weekly podcast is to make economics easy, uncomplicated and accessible. With the world at a political, technological and financial tipping point, economics has never been so important to all of us and yet, it’s made inaccessible and complicated by so many.I’ve always thought what is complicated is rarely important and what is important is rarely complicated.That will be our motto.Every week we are going to tease out some big economic or political issue facing us, not just here in Ireland but in Europe and further afield. Globalisation has brought us all together. We all face similar challenges whether you live in Dublin, London, Minnesota or Milan.If you would like to enjoy all of our content ad-free and have early access to episodes, subscribe to DMCW+ on Apple Podcast.If you would like to support the show, please consider becoming a patron at www.patreon.com/DavidMcWilliams. Hosted on Acast. See acast.com/privacy for more information.
Episodes
Mentioned books
Nov 5, 2024 • 34min
Power and Plutocracy: Have we Reached Peak Billionaire?
Explore the intersection of power and money ahead of upcoming elections. The podcast dives into the ancient battle of warrior, priestly, and merchant classes, showcasing how modern billionaires fit into this dynamic. With nearly $700 million at stake, are we witnessing 'peak billionaire' dominance? Historical reflections on McKinley and Roosevelt reveal lessons for today's plutocrats. Plus, discover the impact of substantial donations on democracy and the constant push for accountability in political funding.
18 snips
Oct 31, 2024 • 31min
Trump 2.0: Should Ireland Be Worried?
Mark Blyth, a Professor of Political Economy at Brown University, delves into the potential global consequences of a Trump victory. He discusses the alarming return of 19th-century tariffs and the impact on jobs, particularly in Ireland, where U.S. companies account for 14% of employment. The conversation also highlights the polarization in American politics and the rising concerns over immigration and corporate tax strategies. As America reshapes its rules, how prepared is the world to adapt to these changes?
Oct 29, 2024 • 44min
Scotland The Brave
Mark Blythe, Professor of Political Economy at Brown University, dives into the rich history of the Scottish Enlightenment. He discusses how 18th-century Scotland became a hub for revolutionary ideas with thinkers like Adam Smith and David Hume thriving amid economic growth. The session explores Scotland's complex socio-economic evolution, including the shadows of trade and independence aspirations. Blythe also draws parallels with modern Ireland, posing thought-provoking questions about innovation, civic engagement, and the impact of Calvinism on Scottish identity.
Oct 24, 2024 • 37min
Is Your City Dying?
The podcast takes a deep dive into the decline of Dublin's inner city, reflecting a wider issue of urban decay. It discusses the transformative power of citizen engagement and mixed-use spaces in reviving communities. Examples like Berlin’s Kreuzberg showcase how neglected areas can flourish. The balance between gentrification and maintaining local character is explored, along with innovative strategies like 'meanwhile use' to breathe life back into dead zones. Can infrastructure changes motivate property owners to join the revival?
6 snips
Oct 22, 2024 • 32min
America at a Crossroads: Trump, Power, and the Future of U.S. Democracy
Tom Frank, a keen observer of American politics and culture, joins to discuss the looming U.S. election and its far-reaching implications. He examines Donald Trump's resurgence in key states and the possible consequences of his potential victory—such as authoritarianism and economic turmoil. Frank analyzes the disconnect between positive economic indicators and public sentiment, along with the shifting political loyalties of billionaires. This conversation highlights the complexities of inequality, voter disillusionment, and the fate of democracy in the U.S.
Oct 17, 2024 • 38min
Are Strong Institutions Enough? Unpacking the Nobel Prize in Economics
Marla Dukaran, a development economist with a Caribbean perspective, joins the discussion on the recent Nobel Prize in Economics. They delve into the winning economists' emphasis on strong institutions as keys to prosperity, questioning if this oversimplifies the complex reality. Highlights include South Korea's rise versus Jamaica's hurdles, stressing the importance of geography, culture, and history. The conversation challenges existing theories and suggests that stable institutions alone may not resolve the growing wealth disparity globally.
8 snips
Oct 15, 2024 • 35min
Could Sanctions Against Israel become a Reality?
The podcast tackles the possibility of the EU imposing sanctions on Israel amid escalating conflicts. It draws historical parallels with sanctions on South Africa and Russia, questioning if Israel could face similar economic isolation. Public sentiment in Europe is evolving, with younger generations reconsidering support for Israel. The dialogue also explores the dynamics of trust in financial systems and highlights the significant trade ties Israel has with Europe, setting the stage for potential economic repercussions.
7 snips
Oct 10, 2024 • 33min
Culture vs. Economics: The Battle for America's Political Soul with Thomas Frank
Thomas Frank, author of "What's the Matter with Kansas," dives into the cultural divides in U.S. politics as the election approaches. He discusses how cultural identity has increasingly influenced voter decisions, overshadowing economic factors despite strong job growth. Frank highlights the shift of the working class towards Republicans while Democrats court the educated elite. The conversation also touches on the impact of culture wars in swing states, challenging the notion that economics alone drives political loyalty in contemporary America.
Oct 8, 2024 • 38min
Fuelling the Fire: Middle East Tensions and Ireland's High Cost-Energy Crisis
As tensions rise between Israel and Iran, the global energy market feels the heat, pushing oil prices higher. Ireland grapples with soaring energy costs, relying heavily on imports. Small businesses in Dublin face cultural and financial pressures amid these crises. The podcast highlights the urgent need for sustainable energy solutions while comparing Ireland's lag in renewables to Denmark's success. With data centers ramping up demand, the balance between attracting investment and ensuring energy security becomes pivotal for Ireland's future.
4 snips
Oct 3, 2024 • 38min
Middle East on the Brink: Where are the Adults?
Tensions between Israel and Iran escalate as missiles fly and regional powers shift. Hezbollah's role complicates the already volatile landscape. The discussion dives into Israel's aggressive strategies and the potential for a larger conflict. Surprisingly, falling oil prices are shaping these dynamics, prompting reflections on the responses from the U.S. and Europe. The absence of effective leadership and the impact of extremism on diplomatic relations highlight the complexity of Middle Eastern politics. What does all this mean for the region's future?
