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Dec. 18, 2024

Relationships, Gender Wars, and Online Culture with Katherine Dee (Default Friend)

This week, Erik Torenberg and Noah Smith discuss modern dating dynamics, cultural shifts, and the impact of technology and social media on relationships with former dating advice columnist and cultural observer Katherine Dee, exploring generational differences and broader societal implications.

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Dec. 11, 2024

The New Left, Health Insurance Myths, and Solving Underpopulation

Noah Smith and Erik Torenberg discuss the high costs of healthcare, the challenges facing the center-left, the possibility of infinite economic growth, solutions to declining fertility rates, and the role of technology in addressing demographic challenges.

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Dec. 4, 2024

A Debate on Immigration, Ethnostates, and National Identity

This week, Erik Torenberg and Noah Smith explore nationalism, ethno-states, global governance, and immigration policies, examining the philosophical and practical implications of national identity, demographic shifts, and cultural assimilation through historical, current, and hypothetical lenses.

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Nov. 27, 2024

Vitalik Buterin & Noah Smith | Is Authoritarianism Inevitable?

In today's special episode, we're sharing a conversation between Noah Smith and Ethereum co-founder Vitalik Buterin recorded back in June for the Bankless podcast.

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Nov. 21, 2024

DOGE, Political Realignment, and the End of 'Groups'

This week, Erik Torenberg and Noah Smith explore economic policies, political dynamics, societal issues, including the abolition of income tax, government agency efficiency, the evolving political landscape, technology's impact on freedom and dignity, and the challenges of maintaining a competent civil service.

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Nov. 13, 2024

Post-Trump Reflections: Fixing Blue Cities

Noah Smith and Erik Torenberg discuss the evolution and challenges of urban development in American cities, particularly the rise and fall of blue cities like San Francisco and New York, while exploring historical trends, fiscal policies, and socio-political dynamics.

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Nov. 7, 2024

Trump and Shadow President Elon

Noah Smith and Erik Torenberg analyze the aftermath of the Trump 2024 election, debating what to expect on political strategies, economic policies, and the power of figures like Elon Musk, while discussing potential shifts needed within the Democratic Party to address changing voter demographics.

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Nov. 3, 2024

Trump vs Kamala, Hereticon, Election craziness

This week on Econ 102, Noah Smith and Erik Torenberg examine the 2024 presidential election, Trump's influence on American politics, and the interplay of conservative movements with domestic and international issues.

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Nov. 1, 2024

Mini: Comparing the New Axis to WWII

Noah Smith and Erik Torenberg analyze the historical Axis powers in comparison to today's emerging adversarial nations, emphasizing geopolitical dynamics, military capabilities, and the evolving balance of power.

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Oct. 25, 2024

Mini: Tariffs on China, Trump, and National Security

Noah breaks down the number one issue no one is grappling with in regards to tariffs on China.

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