Podcast
Faith and Economics
Hosted by Gwartney Institute · EN
In Faith and Economics, economics professors Dr. Russ McCullough and Dr. Peter Jacobsen and philosophy professor Dr. Justin Clarke discuss big issues that impact economic freedom and human flourishing from a Christian perspective. This podcast is an initiative of the Gwartney Institute at Ottawa University.
For more information, contact us at gwartney.institute@gmail.com
34episodes
Episodes
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C.S Lewis - The Abolition of Man | #375
Jan 500:40:52Tap to summarizePeter leads a discussion going over an interesting nonfiction book by one of the podcast's favorite authors. The Abolition of Man argues against various forms of relativism and scientism, defending a version of natural law grounded in a moral realism that Lewis claims is the bedrock of all historically successful cultures.
Transcribe →Billion Dollar Idea for Airline and Shutdown | #374
Dec 2900:28:55Tap to summarizeThe discussion centered on Russ’s proposal for a private-sector response to government shutdowns affecting aviation, suggesting airlines create a fund to offer interest-free, short-term loans to cover workers’ paychecks, arguing that the estimated cost (e.g., $114 million for Delta) would be less than airlines’ shutdown-related losses and could save over $1 billion when traveler costs and non-monetary impacts are included. Justin questioned why such a solution had not already been adopted, pointing to information costs or vested interests, while he and Peter analyzed the economic, political, and legal implications of having airlines fund air traffic controllers during shutdowns. The group debated potential benefits and drawbacks, including reduced pressure on the executive branch that might make shutdowns more frequent, and considered whether private solutions could effectively fill gaps left by government absence. The conversation broadened to explore the case for privatizing air traffic control, examining historical reasons for government involvement versus modern technological capabilities, and concluded with plans to discuss additional topics, including a proposed financial initiative for children.
Transcribe →Betting Markets Make the News Better? | #373
Dec 2200:34:07Tap to summarizeWhat happens when real-money prediction markets enter mainstream news? In this episode, Russ McCullough and Peter Jacobson unpack CNN’s new partnership with Kalshi, exploring whether market-driven forecasts can sharpen election coverage or introduce new bias. They discuss how prediction markets impose a “bias tax,” why donor manipulation is costly and difficult, and how historic wagers—from Soros to Julian Simon—show the power of accountable predictions. The conversation compares prediction markets with gambling and stock trading, examines regulation and insider concerns, and considers AI’s forecasting pitfalls. Ultimately, they ask: Can markets push journalism toward more honest, falsifiable reporting?
Transcribe →The Venezuelan Debacle | #372
Dec 1500:33:36Tap to summarizeA boat from Venezuela allegedly trafficing drugs was blown up and its passengers were killed, apparently in multiple stages. This raises questions about the morality of killing in war, killing in general, and the applicability of so called 'Just War Theory'. However, we also appear to be gearing up for some kind of regime-change in Venezuela, and it's currently unclear exactly why this is so. Join the Gwartney Institute for a discussion concerning the Venezuelan situation.
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