Throughline

Daniel Tischner, a political science professor at the University of Oregon, dives into the fascinating history and implications of the Alien Enemies Act. He discusses how this 1798 law has resurfaced under President Trump's executive order, sparking legal battles and debates over immigration policies. Tischner explores past uses of the Act during major conflicts and its impact on civil liberties. The conversation highlights the delicate balance between national security and individual rights, shedding light on the evolving nature of executive power in America.

In this engaging discussion, Rutger Bregman, a Dutch historian and author known for his uplifting view of humanity, teams up with Rebecca Solnit, the author exploring resilience in disasters. They tackle the notion of human nature, challenging the idea that we are inherently selfish. Instead, they highlight how societal narratives during chaos can foster connection and solidarity. They also draw lessons from disasters like Hurricane Katrina and advocate for a hopeful, utopian perspective, emphasizing that even in the darkest times, our better instincts can shine through.

In this engaging discussion, guest John Koza, the computer scientist who revolutionized the lottery with the scratch-off ticket, dives into America's obsession with gambling. He shares how the lottery’s roots intertwined with issues of crime and politics, transforming from taboo to mainstream. Koza recounts the fascinating evolution of scratch tickets, capturing public excitement and their cultural significance. You'll discover how a blend of technology and gaming reshaped the landscape of lotteries and what it means for Americans chasing quick riches.

This episode dives into the Fifth Amendment and the daunting right to remain silent. It examines why many still talk to police despite those rights, highlighting cultural narratives and historical injustices involving coercion and racial bias in law enforcement. Through compelling cases like Brown v. Mississippi, it sheds light on wrongful convictions and the evolution of Miranda rights. The complexities of asserting the right to silence amid police interrogation are discussed, revealing the ongoing struggle for justice and understanding of constitutional protections.

Explore the heartwarming journey of Sesame Street from its origins to its role in shaping young minds across America. Discover how it tackled tough social issues, promoting empathy and diversity, while serving as a comforting presence during challenging times. Learn about its innovative use of television for education, the cultural significance it holds, and the impact it had on children's programming. Personal anecdotes reveal how this beloved show became a beacon for community connection and representation in children's lives.

Dive into the mysterious past as the podcast explores the asteroid impact that wiped out the dinosaurs and its surprising connection to our current threats. Delve into the lessons from extinction, contemplating climate change and nuclear dangers. Discover the Alvarez hypothesis and the emotional ties of a father-son duo in scientific discovery. Reflect on Carl Sagan's insights regarding nuclear winter and the political and societal implications of these potentially world-ending scenarios. A thought-provoking journey through time and the fragility of existence.

In this enlightening discussion, John Feerick, a Fordham Law School professor known for his pivotal role in drafting the 25th Amendment, dives deep into the challenges of presidential succession. He shares the urgency for constitutional reform following JFK's assassination and how it inspired the creation of the amendment. Feerick highlights historical precedents of presidential incapacity and the legal ambiguity they created, underscoring the importance of clear protocols for maintaining national stability during crises.

Join Paul Starr, a Princeton sociology professor with expertise in American healthcare's history, and Jim Marone, a political science professor at Brown University, as they unravel America's complex health insurance saga. They discuss how the shift from universal coverage to employer-based insurance created a system that often leaves many vulnerable. The conversation touches on President Truman's push for universal health insurance, the impact of World War II on healthcare access, and how political resistance shaped today's health landscape.

In this engaging discussion, Andy Rudalevich, a Bowdoin College professor specializing in the executive branch, unpacks the evolving nature of presidential power. He explores the ambiguous powers outlined by the Constitution and traces their expansion through historical crises. Notably, Rudalevich delves into the impact of the Cold War, the 9/11 attacks, and recent unilateral actions like student loan forgiveness. He emphasizes the delicate balance between executive authority and democratic oversight, shedding light on the complexities of the presidency today.

Explore the origins and evolution of the anti-vaccine movement, rooted in distrust and misinformation. Discover the consequences of the controversial 1998 paper linking vaccines to autism and its lasting impact on public perception. Dive into historical vaccine crises like the Cutter Incident that fueled skepticism. Examine how emotional narratives clash with scientific evidence, revealing societal factors that contribute to the modern rise in vaccine misconceptions. The podcast highlights ongoing struggles in the dialogue around vaccine safety and public health.