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    Freakonomics Radio

    Freakonomics Radio

    Freakonomics co-author Stephen J. Dubner uncovers the hidden side of everything. Why is it safer to fly in an airplane than drive a car? How do we decide whom to marry? Why is the media so full of bad news? Also: things you never knew you wanted to know about wolves, bananas, pollution, search engines, and the quirks of human behavior. Join the Freakonomics Radio Plus membership program for weekly member-only episodes of Freakonomics Radio. You’ll also get every show in our network without ads. To sign up, visit our show page on Apple Podcasts or go to freakonomics.com/plus.

    Freakonomics Radio

    Thu Apr 04 2024

    583. Are We Living Through the Most Revolutionary Period in History?

    PopulismIdentity PoliticsImmigrationGeopolitical DynamicsIlliberal Democracy

    The episode explores the rise of populism and closed thinking, the evolving political divide centered around identity politics, immigration and globalization's impact on geopolitical dynamics, challenges posed by illiberal democracy and populist politics, Russia's identity politics and national culture, misinterpretations and power dynamics in global affairs, perspectives on the Israel-Palestine conflict, US dominance in technology and demographic vibrancy, and the importance of staying true to oneself in geopolitics.

    Freakonomics Radio

    Thu Jan 11 2024

    572. Why Is There So Much Fraud in Academia?

    research misconductacademic fraudpublic healthtransparencyreproducibility

    The episode discusses research misconduct, academic fraud, and the impact on public health and academic standards. It explores the manipulation of data for desired findings, replication failure, and the legal consequences of academic fraud. The podcast raises concerns about the chilling effect on scientific inquiry and highlights the positive influences of social science research. The conversation will continue in the next episode, covering the financial aspect of research paper mills.

    Freakonomics Radio

    Thu Sep 28 2023

    559. Are Two C.E.O.s Better Than One?

    co-CEOsleadershippartnershipsmanagement

    This episode of Freakonomics Radio explores the concept of co-CEOs in companies. Research suggests that companies with co-CEOs can deliver higher shareholder returns. The episode discusses the benefits and challenges of the co-CEO model, using examples such as RIM's co-CEOs and successful partnerships like Goldman Sachs. It also examines the practical implementation of co-CEOs and draws parallels with pair programming in software engineering. The episode concludes by highlighting the need for bold leadership and debunking myths about solo CEOs as divinely inspired heroes.

    Freakonomics Radio

    Thu Aug 31 2023

    555. New Technologies Always Scare Us. Is A.I. Any Different?

    Artificial IntelligenceAI PerformanceImpact on JobsAutomationTechnology Decisions

    Artificial intelligence (AI) is a topic of both hype and fear. Current AI models are not yet powerful enough to replace humans in complex tasks, but with larger datasets and longer training times, AI performance can improve rapidly. The impact of AI on jobs is predicted to be significant, with some jobs already being replaced by AI. However, automation also creates new kinds of work. Technology decisions can have unpredictable long-term effects, and it is important to include diverse perspectives in shaping AI. The alignment problem in AI refers to the challenge of ensuring that AI systems pursue human goals. Misaligned AIs can have unintended harmful actions. As AI becomes more capable, relying on AI decision makers may be necessary for competitiveness. The future of AI raises questions about the role of human CEOs and the potential for AI generals and soldiers. Progress in AI may occur in leaps, and regulation will play a crucial role in managing its impact. AI will have a disruptive impact on jobs, and the next episode will explore a utopian vision of a world with AI.

    Freakonomics Radio

    Thu Aug 24 2023

    554. Can A.I. Take a Joke?

    Artificial IntelligenceHumorWritingCreativityFuture of Work

    This episode of Freakonomics Radio explores the topic of artificial intelligence (AI) and its implications. The host, Adam Davidson, aims to provide a simple and clear explanation of AI and how it should be used. The episode covers various aspects of AI, including its current state, its impact on humor and writing, and the concerns surrounding its use in creative industries. The future role of humans in relation to AI is also discussed. Overall, the episode offers insights into the potential benefits and challenges of AI.

    Freakonomics Radio

    Thu Aug 10 2023

    Should Traffic Lights Be Abolished? (Ep. 454 Replay)

    RoundaboutsTraffic SafetyCarmel, IndianaIntersection DesignCosts and Benefits

    The episode explores the benefits and challenges of roundabouts as a safer and more efficient alternative to traditional intersections. It discusses the high number of traffic crashes and fatalities at intersections controlled by traffic lights, highlighting the potential lives that could be saved by swapping them out for roundabouts. The case study of Carmel, Indiana showcases the success of roundabouts in reducing fatalities and improving traffic flow. The chapter also delves into the costs and economic benefits of roundabouts, as well as public perception and acceptance of these circular intersections. The episode concludes with insights on the challenges faced by autonomous vehicles in navigating roundabouts.

    Freakonomics Radio

    Thu Aug 10 2023

    Should Traffic Lights Be Abolished? (Ep. 454 Replay)

    roundaboutstraffic safetyCarmel, Indianaefficiencypublic perception

    The episode explores the benefits of roundabouts in improving traffic safety, reducing fatalities, and increasing efficiency. It discusses the success of roundabouts in Carmel, Indiana and their impact on pedestrian safety. The cost implications of building roundabouts compared to signalized intersections are also examined. Additionally, the episode delves into public perception and challenges faced in implementing roundabouts, as well as the potential role of autonomous vehicles in navigating roundabouts. Overall, the episode highlights the potential of roundabouts as a safer and more efficient alternative to traditional intersections.

    Freakonomics Radio

    Sun Aug 06 2023

    Extra: A Modern Whaler Speaks Up

    whale huntingenvironmental impactsustainable harvestingcommercial whalingecosystem balance

    The series explores the controversial practice of whale hunting, focusing on the perspective of Bjorn Anderson, a prominent whaler in Norway. The chapters cover topics such as the decline in demand for whale products, the environmental impact of whaling, and Anderson's insights on sustainable harvesting. The interviews shed light on the challenges faced by whalers and their role in maintaining ecosystem balance. Despite criticism from environmental activists, Anderson emphasizes the importance of regulated hunting for food production and conservation.

    Freakonomics Radio

    Sun Aug 06 2023

    Extra: A Modern Whaler Speaks Up

    Whale HuntingEnvironmental ImpactSustainable Harvesting

    This episode explores the controversial practice of whale hunting, focusing on an interview with Bjorn Anderson, one of the biggest whalers in Norway. The chapters cover topics such as the decline in demand for whale products, the process of whale hunting, the environmental impact, public perception, and media coverage. Anderson argues that whale hunting is necessary for maintaining the balance of the ecosystem and protecting fish stocks. He emphasizes the need for a better understanding of sustainable harvesting practices.

    Freakonomics Radio

    Thu Aug 03 2023

    552. Freakonomics Radio Presents: The Economics of Everyday Things

    EconomicsSportsFashionEnvironmentPaleontology

    This episode covers a range of topics including the economics of everyday things, the success of sports mascots like the Philly Fanatic, the production and challenges of cashmere in Mongolia and China, and the commercialization of T-Rex fossils. It explores the impact of mass production, overgrazing, and climate change on cashmere quality, as well as the controversies surrounding the sale and ownership of valuable dinosaur fossils.

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