A Nobel Prize Winner’s Plan to Save Democracy

A Nobel Prize Winner’s Plan to Save Democracy

Author: Next Big Idea Club August 31, 2026 Duration: 57:08
Democracy is in the dumps. OK, that's a bit dramatic. But it's definitely not working as well as it used to. Good thing Daron Acemoglu — Nobel laureate, MIT Institute Professor, and one of the world's most-cited economists — has a plan to fix it. Today on the show, he explains why liberal democracy has faltered in the post-industrial age and makes the case for upgrading it to a new "working-class liberalism" built around good jobs, strong communities, and greater tolerance. We also discuss what today's populist movements get right and wrong, and why immigration has become such a powerful political fault line. Plus: Why Daron, once skeptical that AI would amount to much economically, now thinks a transformation larger than the Industrial Revolution is on the table. His new book is What Happened to Liberal Democracy? Remaking a Politics of Shared Prosperity. __________ 🎥 The Next Big Idea is now on YouTube! 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Each week on The Next Big Idea, hosts Rufus Griscom and Caleb Bissinger sit down with authors and researchers whose ideas are shaping our culture, education, and understanding of society. The conversations are guided by a unique group of curators-Malcolm Gladwell, Adam Grant, Susan Cain, and Daniel Pink-who help frame these discussions around the most compelling new concepts in science and social thought. This isn't just an interview podcast; it's a deep exploration of the books and theories that have the potential to shift perspectives and spark meaningful change. You'll hear the stories behind the ideas, the personal journeys of the thinkers, and practical insights that extend beyond the page. The dialogue is structured yet spontaneous, offering listeners a genuine sense of being part of a substantive conversation. Episodes are released every Thursday, providing a consistent dose of intellectual curiosity. The podcast is produced by the Next Big Idea Club, an organization dedicated to surfacing and discussing transformative knowledge. Whether you're looking to understand the nuances of human behavior, the latest scientific discoveries, or the forces driving social change, this series serves as an accessible gateway to complex topics. The aim is to make big ideas feel relevant and engaging, without oversimplifying their importance. Tune in for a thoughtful break from the noise, where the focus is entirely on understanding what comes next.
Author: Language: English Episodes: 50

The Next Big Idea
Podcast Episodes
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