Conversations with Tyler

Annie Duke, a world champion poker player and decision theory expert, shares fascinating insights on human cognition and decision-making. She discusses how the poker table serves as a laboratory for understanding decision traps. Topics include the psychology of probabilistic thinking in relationships, the complexities of betting behaviors, and the surprising dynamics behind language acquisition. Duke even weighs in on the political influence of top poker players and the mindset that distinguishes successful gamblers. It's a riveting exploration of risk in life and gameplay!

Rachel Harmon, a professor of law at the University of Virginia and expert on police reform, shares her insights on the complexities of American policing. She highlights the challenges of obtaining accurate data on police conduct and questions the effectiveness of body cameras. Harmon's analysis includes the potential benefits of diversifying police forces and the sobering issue of sexual assaults by officers. She also reflects on innovative case studies from cities like Camden and discusses the role of technology in shaping future legal education, blending her engineering background with legal thought.

Ashley Mears, a former fashion model and now an academic sociologist, dives into the complex relationship between status and beauty in elite social circles. She shares insights from her book, revealing how women leverage 'bodily capital' for gains in nightlife. The conversation touches on why clubgoers prioritize beauty, the unexpected dynamics of being scouted, and how beauty influences academic perceptions. Mears also reflects on her writing process, advocating for a deeper understanding of social status and economic capitulation within the glamorous party scene.

In this engaging discussion, economist Paul Romer shares insights from his groundbreaking work on economic growth and development. He proposes innovative solutions for COVID-19, including mass testing and strategies for reopening schools. Romer critiques the FDA’s role in public health and explores the idea of charter cities for migration challenges. His reflections on human nature from experiences at Burning Man highlight the importance of a culture of science in society. With thoughts on reforming the World Bank and the potential of sub-Saharan Africa, Romer presents a hopeful view of economic collaboration.

Adam Tooze, a Columbia University historian, dives into the intricate dance of economic recovery and history. He discusses the perplexing decision for high-cost lockdowns during the pandemic and envisions a 'swoosh-shaped' recovery while warning about vulnerabilities in China and emerging economies. Tooze critiques Keynes' views on the Treaty of Versailles, linking it to the rise of authoritarianism in Germany. He also shares insights on writing habits and reflects on Europe's future challenges, including economic strife and the refugee crisis.

Glen Weyl, an economist and founder of RadicalXChange, discusses innovative strategies to combat COVID-19. He highlights a testing and isolation plan with a ten-to-one benefit-cost ratio, comparing the U.S. response to successes abroad. The conversation delves into pricing issues during the pandemic, the importance of engaging academia in public discourse, and modernizing education systems. Weyl also reflects on his ideological journey and the intriguing dynamics of personal identity.

Philip E. Tetlock, a professor at the University of Pennsylvania and co-author of Superforecasting, dives into the fascinating world of prediction. He discusses the balance between entertainment and accuracy in forecasting, highlighting the challenges forecasters face to capture attention. Tetlock contrasts fox-like integrative thinkers with hedgehogs and lays out the importance of cognitive diversity in crisis forecasting. He also reflects on the impact of second cultures and offers insights into improving decision-making processes, all while navigating the complexities of human judgment.

Emily St. John Mandel, renowned for her novels like Station Eleven, joins the conversation to discuss the uncanny parallels between her stories and current reality. She candidly questions why people are drawn to pandemic narratives during crises. The chat dives into topics like self-exile strategies, the complexities of trophy wives balancing wealth and happiness, and the emotional landscapes shaped by literature. With a backdrop of her experiences, Mandel connects the dots between fiction and real life, revealing how her past in dance informs her writing.

Ross Douthat, author of "The Decadent Society" and New York Times contributor, dives into decadence as a technical state of society, not just a moral judgment. He discusses Kanye West as a force against stagnation and critiques modern architecture's mediocrity. Douthat examines how changing masculine roles impact family and fertility, while exploring the influence of Thiel's ethos on conservatism. Delving into the complexities of morality, he contrasts Mormonism with other Christian communities, and even touches on the allure of UFOs and ghosts in modern narratives.

Russ Roberts, the insightful host of EconTalk, joins Tyler Cowen to delve deep into the complexities of COVID-19. They discuss the emotional toll of social isolation and the importance of maintaining human connections during crises. Their conversation navigates the economic fallout, examining government responses and the struggles of small businesses. They also explore potential health innovations post-pandemic and the moral dilemmas surrounding government bailouts. On a hopeful note, they encourage personal empowerment through engaging in projects and the future of education.