

Ones and Tooze
Foreign Policy
Foreign Policy economics columnist Adam Tooze, a history professor and a popular author, is encyclopedic about basically everything: from the COVID shutdown, to climate change, to pasta sauce. On our new podcast, Tooze and FP deputy editor Cameron Abadi will look at two data points each week that explain the world: one drawn from the week’s headlines and the other from just about anywhere else Tooze takes us. Check out Adam Tooze’s column at https://foreignpolicy.com/author/adam-tooze/.
Episodes
Mentioned books

15 snips
Aug 1, 2025 • 45min
Whither Global Development?
The podcast dives into the shortfall of the UN's Sustainable Development Goals, with 80% failing to meet their targets. It discusses the implications of the U.S. retreat from international aid and the rising influence of China’s development strategies, particularly its One Belt, One Road initiative. The dual role of artificial intelligence in addressing poverty and infrastructure is also examined, highlighting the need for new frameworks in a rapidly changing technological landscape. The resulting challenges paint a complex picture for global development.

13 snips
Jul 25, 2025 • 33min
Heterodox Economists: Karl Polyani
Dive into the revolutionary ideas of Karl Polanyi, a key figure in critiquing self-regulating markets. Discover how his Jewish heritage and struggles shaped his views, and explore his belief that economic systems are deeply influenced by cultural and political contexts. The discussion challenges mainstream economic assumptions, advocating for a re-evaluation of how we conceptualize the economy. Join the conversation on the societal impacts of commodification and the urgent need to restore values within market dynamics.

12 snips
Jul 18, 2025 • 38min
Heterodox Economists: Thorstein Veblen
Explore the life and groundbreaking ideas of Thorstein Veblen, the heterodox economist who reshaped economic thought. Discover his thoughts on 'conspicuous consumption' and how social status influences consumer behavior. Delve into Veblen's vision of technocrats driving societal progress and his critique of the commercialization of education in American universities. The discussion juxtaposes Veblen's insights with traditional economic models, revealing their enduring relevance today.

28 snips
Jul 11, 2025 • 35min
Heterodox Economists: John Kenneth Galbraith
This discussion delves into John Kenneth Galbraith's impact on economics, showcasing his progressive ideas and critiques of consumerism and corporate power. The conversation highlights the rivalry between Galbraith and Paul Krugman, shedding light on shifting trends in economic thought. Listeners will discover Galbraith's realist approach, challenging conventional wisdom and advocating for a deeper understanding of economic complexities. Furthermore, his critique of consumer sovereignty remains relevant, offering a fresh perspective on modern economic debates.

39 snips
Jul 4, 2025 • 35min
The Global Art Market
Dive into the sprawling $57.5 billion global art market, a landscape shrouded in opacity. Discover how primary and secondary markets, galleries, and auction houses interact and influence art's value. Explore the legal complexities of storing high-value artworks in freeports, and weigh the risks and benefits involved. Unpack the tension between traditional connoisseurship and financial speculation, while also examining the roles of museums as both caretakers and market influencers, amidst the rise of NFTs and modern ownership trends.

49 snips
Jun 27, 2025 • 43min
New York and NATO
A young democratic socialist politician has shaken up New York City's political landscape by winning the primary against a major establishment figure. This victory could reshape the city's economic future amidst affordability challenges for its middle class. The discussion then shifts to NATO, highlighting Germany's military spending increase and the issues faced by Spain and Italy. Insights into military recruitment complexities and the need for a cohesive approach to enhance efficiency in Europe are also explored.

69 snips
Jun 20, 2025 • 43min
The Economics of the Israel-Iran War
The podcast dives into the escalating conflict between Israel and Iran, exploring military strategies, including airstrikes and missile exchanges. It discusses the economic implications on global oil markets and the evolving geopolitical landscapes. The hosts critique media narratives surrounding military evacuations and highlight Israel's dependence on U.S. support. As the tensions rise, attention shifts towards regional dynamics, with significant questions about alliances and the power shifts in the Middle East.

73 snips
Jun 13, 2025 • 51min
The Economics of Mass Deportation
The podcast dives into the Trump administration's ambitious deportation goals, examining their economic ramifications. It highlights the struggles of undocumented workers in Los Angeles and the resulting societal tensions fueled by militarized law enforcement. Historical parallels to civil rights movements expose deeper issues at play while discussing the significance of military parades in shaping national identity. Additionally, the impact of divisive political rhetoric invites listeners to reflect on unity in a fractured landscape.

86 snips
Jun 6, 2025 • 55min
Trump's Policy Bill
The podcast dives into a major Republican policy bill projected to add $2.4 trillion to the national debt while extending tax cuts and slashing essential federal programs. It discusses the internal conflicts within the Republican Party regarding fiscal responsibility. Additionally, there's an intriguing segment on the economics of Pilates, tracing its historical roots and assessing its current market implications. Listeners will gain insight into the interplay between government policy and economic inequality.

68 snips
May 30, 2025 • 59min
Trump's Trade War with Europe
The discussion kicks off with the significant $236 billion trade deficit between the U.S. and the EU, examining the effects of proposed tariffs. As negotiations progress, the hosts dive into the complexities of international trade, particularly post-Brexit relations. Transitioning to the cultural realm, they celebrate the 60th anniversary of 'The Sound of Music,' exploring its historical context and economic impact on Salzburg, particularly how the film boosted tourism and local employment. A fascinating blend of politics, economics, and nostalgia!