Freakonomics Radio • Freakonomics Radio + Stitcher

Dive into the complex world of social media and its unexpected hold on users with Freakonomics Radio's latest exploration featuring Stephen Dubner in conversation with researchers Ben Handel and Leonardo Bursztyn. The episode delves into why, despite a growing preference for a life devoid of social platforms like TikTok and Instagram, users remain ensnared by the fear of missing out. The discussion reveals an intriguing paradox—the desire to disconnect clashes with the continued participation on these ubiquitous networks.

Freakonomics Radio scrutinizes the research that parallels social media with status products known for their negative externalities, drawing comparisons with luxury brands and even addictive substances such as cigarettes. As the speakers shed light on the disconnect between the consumers' stated preferences and their actual behavior, they also examine the platform incentives that may favor growth at the expense of user well-being. Furthermore, potential policy implications and their unintended consequences are contemplated, painting a comprehensive picture of the social media landscape that affects everyday choices.

"Freakonomics Radio" delves into the controversial landscape of sports and finance in a revealing episode featuring Stephen Dubner and a panel of experts, including Victor Matheson, Bomani Jones, Alan Shipnuck, Karen Crouse, Brandel Chamblee, and legal perspective from Jodi Balsam. The essence of the debate rests on the emergence of LIV Golf, with its Saudi financial backing raising alarms about the influence of sovereign wealth on the traditions and ethics of professional sports. While massive contracts attract star players, the episode scrutinizes the concept of 'sportswashing'—using the allure of sports to divert attention from countries' human rights records—and its implications across different leagues and cultures.

The discussion extends from the fairways to the football fields as experts dissect the entangled issues of ownership and the trend towards foreign investments in major US sports, spurred by soaring franchise values. The spotlight is on the potential shift in NFL policies toward accepting foreign capital, including from Gulf states, as Balsam underlines an integral tension: the civic role that sports teams play versus their commercial viability. From LIV Golf's legal wranglings with the PGA Tour to foreseeing a new professional golf paradigm, the panel navigates the complex arena where sports, economics, and geopolitics converge, questioning the future of sports integrity amidst the tides of global investments.

Dive into the latest episode of Freakonomics Radio as host Stephen Dubner explores the intersection of water management and societal health with expert guests Amy Kirby, Natalie Koch, and Marc Johnson. This discussion takes you into the heart of modern challenges and technological advancements in water surveillance, historical racial disparities in municipal water systems, and the international implications of water policies.

Firstly, the episode reveals the innovative approach of using wastewater surveillance to monitor COVID outbreaks, a method refined by Kirby's guidance at the CDC. This critical tool, with its wide-reaching potential, detects not only COVID but other health indicators, illustrating its power in public health strategy and epidemic management. Meanwhile, the podcast also sheds light on the unforeseen benefits from the extension of water services to Black communities in the Jim Crow era, detailing how these initiatives substantially minimized racial health disparities. Moreover, Stephen Dubner invites you to consider the nuances of water sustainability and international agricultural practices, as he discusses with guests the complex issue of Saudi Arabian alfalfa farms exploiting Arizona's water resources.

Dive into the intricacies of Google's evolving search landscape with Stephen Dubner and his panel of experts on "Freakonomics Radio." As they dissect the tech giant's waning search quality, they explore the dichotomy of commercial intent within advertisements that may be overshadowing informative content. With the likes of Marissa Mayer weighing in, the discourse spans the sometimes contentious yet symbiotic nature of ads within search results, and the implications of prioritizing revenue over user experience.

Amidst the tech maelstrom, this episode also casts a lens on Google's towering market presence, which may be stifling innovation and quality according to voices like Jeremy Stoppelman and Ryan McDevitt. With the Senate Judiciary Committee's gaze fixed on its business practices, Google stands at a crossroads of public and legislative scrutiny. Is the titan of search navigating towards an antitrust quagmire? This discussion extends to the contemplation of advertisement's role in Google's dominance, stirring thoughts on the feasibility of ad-free, premium search services as alternative revenue models.

Join Stephen Dubner and guests Barbara Berg, Cheryl Haley, Debby Harlow, and Sam Stern on Freakonomics Radio as they traverse the lesser-known narrative of Richard Feynman's journey through the psychological and emotional labyrinth facilitated by psychedelic experiences. Against the backdrop of a storied career in physics, this episode delves into Feynman's compelling experimentation with mind-altering substances and sensory deprivation. Exploring the depths of consciousness at the Esalen Institute, the scientific legend confronts his locked-away emotions and comes to terms with a pervasive sense of guilt that shadows his otherwise sparkling charisma.

While reveling in his intellectual might, Feynman's life story unfurls, revealing the complexity of a man whose brilliance was matched by his deep-seated regrets and untapped emotional nature. The conversation also illuminates how his extraordinary legacy continues to resonate within scientific circles and educational spheres today. His innovative approach to understanding and teaching complex theories leaves an indelible mark on the future of science education, as posited by his guides—the "Three Graces"—ensuring his methods and passion for science ignite the minds of generations to come.