Freakonomics by Steven D. Levitt and Stephen J. Dubner
Listen to the podcast now:
Show Notes:
In Freakonomics (written with Stephen J. Dubner), Levitt argues that many apparent mysteries of everyday life don’t need to be so mysterious: they could be illuminated and made even more fascinating by asking the right questions and drawing connections. For example, Levitt traces the drop in violent crime rates to a drop in violent criminals and, digging further, to the Roe v. Wade decision that preempted the existence of some people who would be born to poverty and hardship.
New! Watch the video of our show:
Key Points/Chapters:
Our Cocktail Party Statements:
Aaron: What appears to be on the outside, once you dig deeper is a different story
Karin: Incentives are the cornerstone of modern life – questioning conventional wisdom will lead you to unexpected answers.
Phil: Rethink the obvious
Our Cocktail Party Index:
What’s this? Explanation of the CPI.
3 comments
Aaron says:
Sep 21, 2010
I think this one turned out well. I finally did watch the video. I must say, I did like the book better. I missed the entire crack gang chapter. What you think?
Karin says:
Sep 21, 2010
I agree that this was one of the best shows yet. And while the abortion concept was controversial, I think the missing gang chapter by Venkatesh was much more compelling. Can’t wait for the next show – Why We Buy!
Lighting Retrofit says:
Sep 21, 2010
Great review even for someone who had not read the book. Looking forward to next stream and checking out the next book in advance. Karin’s cute, Aaron’s shirt wasn’t THAT great, and Phil, although a potty mouth, had some great takes. Thanks again!