

IEA Podcast
Institute of Economic Affairs
The Institute of Economic Affairs podcast examines some of the pressing issues of our time. Featuring some of the top minds in Westminster and beyond, the IEA podcast brings you weekly commentary, analysis, and debates. insider.iea.org.uk
Episodes
Mentioned books

Apr 10, 2024 • 51min
The Roman Economy: Pandemic, Slavery & Trade Networks
Explore the Roman Empire's dynamics during the Antonine Plague with Colin Elliott, Associate Professor at Indiana University and author of "Pax Romana." Elliott offers profound insights into the pandemic's impact on the economy, military, and society, challenging conventional views on Roman cities' roles. He navigates complexities, highlighting economic interconnections and societal resilience, providing invaluable perspectives on this pivotal period in history. This is a public episode. If you'd like to discuss this with other subscribers or get access to bonus episodes, visit insider.iea.org.uk/subscribe

Apr 5, 2024 • 41min
How Countries Successfully Escape Poverty: Lessons from free-market economies
Join Matthew Lesh, Director of Public Policy & Communications at IEA, as he hosts Rainer Zitelmann, Historian & Author, for an insightful exploration of poverty alleviation strategies discussed in Zitelmann's book "How Nations Escape Poverty."This week's question: how do nations escape poverty?Through critical analysis, Zitelmann underscores the significance of economic freedom and market-oriented reforms in fostering development, drawing on case studies from Vietnam to Poland to illustrate transformative economic shifts. By examining the role of entrepreneurship and market dynamics, the discussion challenges prevailing notions about the sole efficacy of development aid in poverty reduction, offering a grounded perspective on pragmatic policy measures and empirical evidence. Subscribe for informed insights on advancing free and prosperous societies. This is a public episode. If you'd like to discuss this with other subscribers or get access to bonus episodes, visit insider.iea.org.uk/subscribe

Apr 3, 2024 • 31min
Outrageous Attempts to Limit Smokers' Rights | The Swift Half with Snowdon
In Snowdon's latest episode of Swift Half with Simon Clark, Director of Forest, they tackle the challenges of modern journalism and the erosion of personal freedom in public health policies. From frustrations with media interaction to concerns about biased reporting, Clark sheds light on the need for balanced discussions and the recognition of individual autonomy in lifestyle choices. Gain valuable insights into smoking advocacy and the importance of diverse perspectives in shaping policy decisions in this thought-provoking discussion on journalism, smoking, and individual liberty. This is a public episode. If you'd like to discuss this with other subscribers or get access to bonus episodes, visit insider.iea.org.uk/subscribe

Mar 29, 2024 • 33min
China, Britain & Trump: How should Britain deal with China?
This week, the UK government accused China of cyber attacks on the Electoral Commission and critical employees, leading to sanctions against Chinese state actors. This sparks debates on the adequacy of the UK's China strategy. Join host Matthew Lesh and guest Professor Syed Kamall for a discussion on "How should Britain deal with China?" Professor Kamall provides expert analysis on UK-China relations, covering cyber attack responses, Trump-era dynamics, and economic engagement. Gain insights on navigating China's global influence while balancing economic interests and security concerns. This is a public episode. If you'd like to discuss this with other subscribers or get access to bonus episodes, visit insider.iea.org.uk/subscribe

Mar 22, 2024 • 25min
Behind the Curtain: Should AI be more Transparent?
Join Matthew Lesh, Director of Public Policy and Communications at the IEA, and Carlo Cordasco, Lecturer at the Alliance Manchester Business School, as they explore the question: Should AI be more transparent?They discuss how AI is reshaping decision-making in sectors like healthcare and finance, the EU's landmark AI Act, and the delicate balance between regulation and innovation. Dive into the intersection of AI and public policy to uncover its implications for society's future. This is a public episode. If you'd like to discuss this with other subscribers or get access to bonus episodes, visit insider.iea.org.uk/subscribe

Mar 20, 2024 • 34min
Alcohol, Tobacco, and Prohibition | The Swift Half with Snowdon
Dive deep into the realm of Canada's prohibition and more with Christopher Snowdon and special guest, Professor Dan Malleck from Brock University.Together, they unpack the complexities of alcohol, tobacco, and prohibition, challenging prevailing narratives and advocating for evidence-based approaches. Join us for a thought-provoking discussion that questions conventional wisdom and reflects on the intersection of health, choice, and government intervention. This is a public episode. If you'd like to discuss this with other subscribers or get access to bonus episodes, visit insider.iea.org.uk/subscribe

Mar 18, 2024 • 52min
How the free-market can increase social mobility in the UK
Join Dr. Kristian Niemietz and guest Vincent Geloso, Assistant Professor of Economics at George Mason University, for a deep dive into the relationship between economic freedom, social mobility, and the UK welfare state. Gain insights into absolute and relative mobility, economic growth's impact, and the role of cultural attitudes and policies. Discover why economic freedom is vital for societal progress and how the UK welfare state has influenced social mobility over time. Don't miss this thought-provoking discussion challenging conventional wisdom and offering fresh perspectives. Subscribe now for more! This is a public episode. If you'd like to discuss this with other subscribers or get access to bonus episodes, visit insider.iea.org.uk/subscribe

Mar 15, 2024 • 28min
ESG, Sustainability, and Social Justice: Should they be the priority?
Join Matthew Lesh, Director of Public Policy at the IEA, and Iain Murray, Vice President for Strategy at the Competitive Enterprise Institute, as they discuss the priority of addressing climate and social justice. Explore government priorities, regulatory competence, and societal implications with insights on climate action, social justice, and government policy. Subscribe for valuable insights into regulatory reforms and connect with us on social media for more. This is a public episode. If you'd like to discuss this with other subscribers or get access to bonus episodes, visit insider.iea.org.uk/subscribe

Mar 8, 2024 • 41min
How the Spring Budget Affects the UK Economy
Join Harrison Griffiths and IEA Executive Director Tom Clougherty as they dissect the recent Spring Budget. From National Insurance cuts to new taxes on vaping, gain insights into what went well, what went wrong, and the underlying structural issues in the UK economy. Explore the economic challenges within the planning system and energy sector, uncovering bureaucratic hurdles and high costs hindering growth and innovation. Delve into the intertwined challenges of fiscal policy and the size of the state, addressing the need for fundamental reforms. Don't miss out on valuable insights into Britain's economic landscape and the path forward. This is a public episode. If you'd like to discuss this with other subscribers or get access to bonus episodes, visit insider.iea.org.uk/subscribe

Mar 6, 2024 • 29min
Stop The Tobacco Ban & Libertarianism | The Swift Half with Snowdon
Swift Half returns with Christopher Snowden! Join him as he welcomes a range of guests for spirited discussions on society and freedom. This week, Charles Amos, author of "The Musing Individualist" and leader of the Defend Freedom, Stop the Tobacco Ban movement, joins the conversation. They explore libertarianism, dissecting its philosophy and addressing the growing threat of paternalism. From philosophical influences to real-world activism, this episode delves deep into the principles of personal freedom and the impact of policies like the tobacco ban. Listen for insightful commentary on government intervention and the importance of individual liberty. Subscribe now for thought-provoking discussions on the state of freedom in our world. This is a public episode. If you'd like to discuss this with other subscribers or get access to bonus episodes, visit insider.iea.org.uk/subscribe


