We think of them as intellectual enclaves and the surest route to a better life. But U.S. colleges also operate like firms, trying to differentiate their products to win market share and prestige points. In the first episode of a special series, we ask what our chaotic system gets right — and wrong. (Part 1 of “Freakonomics Radio Goes Back to School.”)
Sep 11
686. Why Is It So Hard to Find an NFL Quarterback?
For decades, teams have tried (and mostly failed) to predict which college quarterbacks will thrive in the pros. Is the science finally catching up? Stephen Dubner speaks with a scout, a psychologist, a data warrior, and a Hall of Fame quarterback who nobody wanted. SOURCES:Scott ... Show More
58m 20s
Sep 4
685. How to Survive the A.I. Shock
Gina Raimondo, a former commerce secretary and governor, thinks A.I. will create plenty of jobs in the long run. She also thinks a poorly managed transition could tear the country apart. So she came up with a plan. SOURCES:Gina Raimondo, co-chair and C.E.O. of RAISE US. RESOURCES ... Show More
57m 37s
Aug 2020
College/University: Is It Worth It? - SimplyPodLogical #27
On this episode of SimplyPodLogical, Cristine and Ben talk about their experience in University, how they chose their majors, the difference between undergrad and graduate school, campus culture, free speech, politics on campus, who should go to university/college, and scholarshi ... Show More
1h 30m
Aug 2025
#431 — What Is Happening on College Campuses?
Sam Harris speaks with Michael Roth about the state of higher education in the U.S. They discuss whether concerns about wokeness were overblown, how colleges should handle campus protests, where universities should draw the line on extreme political views, DEI, why Jews should be ... Show More
23m 29s
Aug 2023
Advice for College Freshmen & How to Make New Friends
How is it almost back to school season? This week, we're chatting about all things college. We discuss school shopping, dorm room essentials, tips for making new friends (and keeping them), how to actually get your work done, the importance of priorities and so much more.
47m 58s