Private vs. Public Risk-Taking | EconTalk | Library of Economics and Liberty

Michael Munger Mike Munger and EconTalk's Russ Roberts discuss the differences between public and private risk-taking. Their conversation includes the history of Honda, the Apple computer and even the use of turkey carcasses as an energy source. They also try to understand why the public is skeptical of good new ideas but often embraces bad new ideas.

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Readings and Links related to this podcast

Podcast Readings

More on the media voter: The Median Voter Model, by Roger D. Congleton

The Pet-a-way Invention at YouTube

Killing germs, reducing waste, making oil: TDP might be the next big thing including Turkey Carcasses. By Andrew Kantor.

An online game based on Bruce Yandle's theories: The Butcher of Philadelphia on bootleggers and Baptists. By Steve Miller.

Milton Friedman on the unholy coalition that supports minimum wage legislation More can be found by searching that site for the word "unholy."

Bastiat's view of the State, referenced in The Law, by Frederic Bastiat.

The Friedman podcast where the educational effect of bad policies is discussed

Addendum: Check out a follow-up question addressed in the Mailbag (Time Mark 54:01)

Comments and Sharing

CATEGORIES: Mike Munger (22) , Public Choice (42)

TWITTER: Follow Russ Roberts at EconTalker

COMMENTS (3 to date)

Latest Comment

Lars Smith writes:

Great interview, but I wish Russ Roberts would give his very interesting interviewees a chance to get words in sideways, once in a while.

Posted October 6, 2006 2:42 AM

Lauren writes:

Hi, Lars. I see you are from France! Welcome to EconTalk!

The format on EconTalk is intended to be more conversational than a typical one-sided radio interview. The idea is to bring the listener one step closer to what an actual economics discussion over lunch between Russ and his guests would be like. It's a cross between an interview and the give-and-take that happens when colleagues get together.

Unlike most radio interviewers, Russ is a professor in the same field as the featured speakers--economics. He has coffee and lunch often with many of his guests.

Your comment is welcome! Perhaps the weights given to interview vs. conversation are worth reconsideration. We've received votes in email and comments on both sides. We welcome further discussion.

Posted October 6, 2006 6:41 AM

Chuck writes:

I agree with you Lauren...Russ makes Econ Talk what it is, he should not be censored!