unSILOed with Greg LaBlanc

David Courtwright, an emeritus professor of history at the University of North Florida, dives into the evolution of addiction from traditional substances to modern digital vices. He discusses how society’s search for pleasure has shaped addiction throughout history. Courtwright examines the concept of 'limbic capitalism' and its role in addiction, including food engineering and gambling's transformation into a state revenue source. The conversation also touches on the societal impacts of digital addiction and the responsibilities of manufacturers and governments in this complex landscape.

David Stasavage, a political expert from NYU and author of several books, explores the historical roots and evolution of democracy. He discusses how economic factors shaped democratic growth in Europe, contrasting it with China's bureaucratic systems. The conversation delves into the role of technology in governance, the necessity for rulers to gain consent, and the complex relationship between taxation and political rights. Stasavage also reflects on today's democratic landscape and the implications of declining trust in government.

Carl Benedikt Frey, Dieter Schwarz Associate Professor of AI & Work at the Oxford Internet Institute, dives into the intersection of automation and economic growth. He discusses how historical technological shifts mirror today’s challenges, revealing the balance between job displacement and new industry creation. The conversation explores who benefits from AI's rise, the political implications of tech advancements, and the critical need for societal adaptation to ensure sustainable productivity. Insightful and thought-provoking, it's a deep look at our future workforce.

Daniel Markovits, the Guido Calabresi Professor of Law at Yale, explores how meritocracy, intended to promote equality, has morphed into a new aristocracy. He highlights the irony of meritocracy perpetuating inequality and eroding the middle class. The discussion touches on the heritability of elite status, the precarious state of non-elite workers amid technological change, and the moral dilemmas facing professionals like lawyers. Markovits challenges listeners to consider the societal implications of wealth concentration and the cultural shifts needed to address these issues.

In a fascinating discussion, Paula S. Fass, an emerita professor of history at UC Berkeley, shares insights on how American childhood has transformed over the centuries. She explores the overlooked significance of childhood in shaping culture and politics, tracing shifts in parenting from independence to helicopter parenting. The conversation highlights the impact of historical thinkers like Locke and Rousseau, the evolution of educational practices, and how changing family dynamics affect modern parenting. The unique nature of American childhood may be fading, sparking thought-provoking reflections.

Paolo Zannoni, Executive Deputy Chairman at Prada and author of 'Money and Promises,' dives into the fascinating history of finance. He discusses how wooden sticks shaped banking and why silver coins vanished in England. Zannoni highlights Italy's pivotal role in modern banking and explains the crucial relationship between trust and transparency in financial systems. The conversation also connects historical transactions to today’s blockchain technology, showcasing how understanding finance's past can provide insights for managing current crises.

Gregory Makoff, a physicist turned banker and Harvard Kennedy School fellow, dives into the gripping saga of Argentina's $100 billion debt crisis. He unpacks the complexities of sovereign debt without international bankruptcy laws, shedding light on the lengthy U.S. court battles that challenged traditional creditor rights. The discussion highlights aggressive tactics used by hedge funds, the intricate dynamics within judicial decisions, and the evolving role of the IMF in global finance, revealing how these factors reshape sovereign debt law.

Sathnam Sanghera, a journalist for The Times of London and author of "Empireland," dives deep into the complexities of British imperial history. He discusses how this past impacts contemporary education and societal perceptions, revealing a troubling tendency for denial and oversimplification. The conversation addresses the intricacies of race and identity shaped by imperial legacies, and the nuanced discussions around reparations. Sanghera's insights challenge listeners to reconsider their understanding of British history and its ongoing effects today.

Jeffrey Rosen, CEO of the National Constitution Center and law professor at George Washington University, dives deep into how ancient philosophies shaped America’s founders. He discusses the concerning shift from virtue-based happiness to a pleasure-seeking mentality starting in the 1960s. Rosen emphasizes the need for moral education and the vital role of deep reading in cultivating civic virtue. He also highlights Benjamin Franklin's dedication to self-education and its relevance in today's society, urging a revival of character education.

Philip K. Howard, a prominent lawyer and author focused on legal reform, joins the discussion about the overwhelming complexity of contemporary laws. He argues that excessive legal micromanagement stifles individual agency and practical wisdom. Highlighting the necessity of balancing strict rules with human judgment, he critiques how rigid regulations can lead to institutional failures. Howard also proposes innovative solutions for urban development, like a 'Department of Exceptions,' to promote flexibility and address housing shortages.