15. You Say Repugnant, I Say … Let's Do ...

Economists don’t usually talk about “culture.” But Joel Mokyr argues that it’s the engine of innovation — and the Nobel Prize committee agreed. Stephen Dubner sits down for a thousand-year conversation (including advice!) with the new Nobel laureate. SOURCES: Joel Mokyr, economic ... Show More

Just beneath the surface of the global economy, there is a hidden layer of dealmakers for whom war, chaos, and sanctions can be a great business opportunity. In this updated episode from 2025, journalists Javier Blas and Jack Farchy help us shine a light on the shadowy realm of c ... Show More

... of bad reviews, meager financing, or artificial intelligence. But he is worried that the world is full of sloppy thinkers who mistake facts for the truth. SOURCES: Werner Herzog, writer, filmmaker, and actor. RESOURCES: The Future of Truth, by Werner Herzog (2025). Every Man ... Show More

<p>Also: what is the most significant choice you will ever make?</p><br/> <p>Hosted by Simplecast, an AdsWizz company. See <a href="https://pcm.adswizz.com">pcm.adswizz.com</a> for information about our collection and use of personal data for advertising.</p> 

What’s the worst that could happen? And why is it that’s generally the first thing we think about; the worst possible scenario! Listen in as we learn how to stop thinking the worst, or in technical terms, catastrophizing. 

<p>Also: what’s the best way to handle rejection?</p><br/> <p>Hosted by Simplecast, an AdsWizz company. See <a href="https://pcm.adswizz.com">pcm.adswizz.com</a> for information about our collection and use of personal data for advertising.</p> 

<p>Also: are the most memorable stories less likely to be true? </p><br/> <p>Hosted by Simplecast, an AdsWizz company. See <a href="https://pcm.adswizz.com">pcm.adswizz.com</a> for information about our collection and use of personal data for advertising.</p> 

What happens if we’re done? The final episode of What Happens If. This is a parody of a 90’s sitcom flashback episode. Thank you from Dan and I to everyone who has listened. We have enjoyed this project and hope to do it again one day. This has been what happens if… The post What ... Show More

<p>Also: is it better to be a thinker, a doer, or a charmer?</p><br/> <p>Hosted by Simplecast, an AdsWizz company. See <a href="https://pcm.adswizz.com">pcm.adswizz.com</a> for information about our collection and use of personal data for advertising.</p> 

In this episode we talk about how choices are made. Why are we less satisfied when we have more options? What is choice overload? How do overcome it? Could this relate to creativity?