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
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If our society kills God, then what? In this episode, the Gwartney Team explores this question by unpacking the surprisingly prescient views of the famous 19th century German philosopher Nietzche.
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In this week's Faith & Economics podcast, the professors talk about the "Is/Ought" problem, a key issue in philosophy. They explain the difference between describing what is (facts) and what ought to be (morals). The discussion also covers how this difference affects our views on ethics, morality, and decision-making in public policy.…
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In this episode, our two economists address the problems with rent control. The Harris campaign announced that rent controls may be on the table for policy changes. Learn about the hidden costs and people who get hurt when rent controls are used. This one topic that economists almost universally dismiss as bad policy!…
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Not raising the federal minimum wage of $7.25 since 2009 has been one of the best things for the American labor market. Learn the reasons for this as the Gwartney Economists explain how unemployment rises when the minimum wage is above market wage. Individual states like Arizona, have minimum wage above the market and are proposing yet another incr…
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Lowering The Political Temperature | #301
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The Gwartney team looks at recent political events (an assassination attempt, a party ticket switcheroo), and the conversation quickly turns to the vitriolic nature of our political discourse. What causes our political debates to be so heated? Are we headed for turmoil? How can we turn down the temperature?…
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Historian Niall Ferguson recently published an article about the place of the USA in the global order titled 'We're All Soviets Now'. What did he mean? Is he right? Listen to the Gwartney Team discuss Ferguson's intriguing claims, and let us know if you agree!
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Kinds of Ignorance: Uncertainty vs. Risk | #299
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Most people use the terms 'uncertainty' and 'risk' interchangeably, but philosophers and economists both agree that these two terms denote very different situations. Even more importantly, mistaking one situation for the other can be extremely costly.If you're uncertain, know that it would be risky to skip this episode. Or it might be uncertain? I …
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A 6-3 decision by the Supreme Court overruled Chevron. Pundits were rending their garments and gnashing their teeth, but what exactly was the Chevron Deference Doctrine? Why did it matter, and what role did Chevron Deference play in the operations of the Federal Bureaucracy? Is this good or bad news? Join the Gwartney Team for a discussion of Chevr…
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Join the Gwartney Team to discuss the first Presidential debate. What was most surprising? What does the election look like going forward?
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People disagree about whether particular acts are moral or immoral. But there is a deeper disagreement lurking, which is a disagreement about the fundamental nature of morality itself, and this is a disagreement that Justin claims is currently playing out in contemporary philosophy. So, what is morality, and why should we care?…
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The Gwartney Institute usually has a rather dim view of the state, and therefore advocates getting the government out of social policy. But the Family is the primary unit of social organization, and plenty of government programs seem to erode the family structure. So, what would a pro-family social policy look like? Is this something we should be a…
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What is the relationship between luck and morality? We often think that luck is morally neutral, in that you shouldn't be blamed or praised merely because you were lucky or unlucky. The other side of this coin is that we think that moral praise and blame should be reserved for actions that are within our control. But what if there is more overlap b…
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Bitcoin turns 15 in 2024, and many other digital currencies have sprung up in the wake of bitcoin's volatile success. Central Banks are now positioning themselves to enter the space with CBDCs (central bank digital currencies), which they claim will make monetary policy more effective while maintaining the benefits of digital currencies without the…
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Here at the Gwartney Institute, we often describe ourselves as advocates for freedom. But even as our freedoms come under attack from all angles, the concept of freedom itself might be unclear, and the meaning is at least disputed. So, what is freedom anyway?
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In this episode, Dr. Clarke explains what fallacies are, providing clear examples and insights. Following his explanation, Dr. McCullough and Dr. Jacobsen engage in a lively debate, presenting their differing views on various fallacies. Tune in for an enlightening discussion that breaks down common logical errors and explores their implications in …
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Justin is angry and animated because he thinks we live in a world where measurement has replaced judgment, and that this robs us of individuality, autonomy, and authenticity. He also thinks the results in terrible outcomes for physical and mental health, education, and if you can believe it, other bad stuff too. He's really on one, so let him cook.…
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What are labor unions, and what role do they play in the modern economy? The Gwartney team explains the arguments for and against Labor Unions, and outlines the ways in which these arguments have changed as the economy has modernized and globalized.
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High Art, Low Culture, and Hyperstimulus | #288
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At the Gwartney Institute, we're very fancy. Still, we wanted to know: What exactly constitutes high art? Is there any substantial difference between the avant-garde and what the rest of us enjoy? Peter walks the Gwartney team through an interesting article purporting to answer this very question. Along the way they touch on haute cuisine, cinema, …
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Who's Afraid of Deflation?Everyone hates inflation - where our money is worth less and less over time. However, many economists prefer a limited amount of inflation to a phenomenon that they find even scarier: deflation. What is deflation, where does it come from, and why are policymakers so afraid of it? Peter, Russ and Justin explain the orthodox…
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Could we work less and be better off? The traditional 40-hour work week has been under the microscope in certain policy circles, accompanied by suggestions that if we moved to a 4-day work week (or a similarly reduced schedule) we would be happier and just as wealthy. The Gwartney team takes precious time out of their respective work weeks to look …
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To what degree is our food supply under federal control? How and why does this happen? How much of a problem is this? Justin has a bee in his bonnet about current federal regulations regarding livestock, and the rest of the Gwartney crew humors his paranoia with civil discussion.
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The Mating Game: Problems Between the Sexes? | #284
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Recent studies show that relations between men and women have deteriorated, particularly among those of dating, mating and creating age. What causes this? What does it mean? How do we fix it? The Gwartney Team weighs in. Join us!
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The Gwartney Team mixes it up, talking about some of the best recreational reading they've come across lately. No textbooks, no political tirades, just the kind of reading that they do for fun, and that you might enjoy. Is Peter is still reading Ernst Jünger? Why is Justin so weird? What kind of space-laser-weapons is Russ currently salivating over…
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Pet Peeves: Sweating the Small Stuff / #282
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What are pet peeves, and why do we get so peeved about them? The Gwartney Team wonders what constitutes a pet peeve, and whether or not they serve a socially useful function. Along the way, they share their own pet peeves, and let me tell you: these guys are nuts.
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Monopoly and Bureaucracy: Why is Centralization Bad? | #281
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The possible merger of grocery giants Kroger and Albertsons is in the news. When businesses centralize, there is a danger that they could form a monopoly, which can then exploit consumers. This, at least, is the justification that the governmental bureaucracy gives in order to regulate business mergers and centralization. Problematically, the gover…
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Our society seems increasingly concerned with and organized around issues related to mental health. Is this development progress, or a symptom of something deeper? How are mental problems related to physical ailments? What does this mean for us? Join the Gwartney team to discuss the growing influence of mental health policy.…
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When we think about what constitutes human flourishing, we usually think about family and vocation. But this leaves out an important source of meaning in our lives: our hobbies. What is a hobby anyway, and why so many of us consider them so important? Are there any features that make some activities better suited to be hobbies than others? Is our s…
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Dan Meylan: Business Leadership and Biblical Principles |#278
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Ottawa University Alumnus and serial insurance industry entrepreneur Dan Meylan joins the Gwartney team for a discussion. Dan makes the case that biblical principles can inform and improve business operations and leadership, and that this combination can pay compound dividends.
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Profit and People - Morality and Business? | #277
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In this episode we ask: What is the social responsibility of a business? This was the question on the table during an exciting debate event hosted by the Gwartney Institute earlier this month, and a question that we often hear discussed in our culture. Join us as the Gwartney Team breaks down the different views on this pivotal topic and finds some…
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Join us in this "When to end a friendship" episode, where we tackle a tricky question: When is it okay to say goodbye to a friend? As students, we juggle a lot, including friendships that might only sometimes feel right. We'll chat about signs that tell us it's time to move on, like feeling constantly down or disrespected. Plus, we'll share tips on…
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Small Town America -Should anything be done? | #275
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In this episode, we dive into the heart of Small Town America to explore the challenges and opportunities these communities face. Join us as we discuss whether anything should be done to address the unique issues they encounter. From local economies to community spirit, we unravel the stories shaping small towns' future. Please tune in for an insig…
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Democracy in Jeopardy - Get Religion? | #274
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This episode, we examine the current state of democracy in the United States and recent attempts by appointed and elected officials to remove a candidate from primary elections. Join us as the Gwartney Team discusses the ramifications of this development, and puts forth ideal solutions that could tame the increasingly vehement and irresponsible for…
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Inspirational -Tribute to Dr. Jim Gwartney | #273
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Join us in a heartfelt and inspiring special edition of our podcast as we pay tribute to the remarkable life and legacy of Dr. Jim Gwartney. Delve into the captivating biography of this influential economist who touched the lives of many with his wisdom and guidance. Discover the profound impact he had on those around him and be uplifted by the sto…
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Suffering Socialist Argentina Elects New Free Market President | #272
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In this new episode "Argentina's Big Change: New President, New Ideas," Russ, Peter, and Justin, chat about Argentina's recent election. The country used to be more about socialism, but now they've chosen a leader who likes the idea of a free-market economy. Join the fun talk as the professors break down what this could mean for Argentina – like, h…
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2024 Predictions -Bitcoin-Economy-Elections | #271
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Hello everyone, This week's new podcast, "2024 Predictions: Bitcoin, Economy, Elections," will reveal the upcoming year's events, so get ready! We are dissecting Bitcoin, the financial industry's state, and the elections' current state. Enjoy casual conversations, knowledgeable analysis, and a few surprises. You're welcome to join us as we decipher…
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Renewable Energy Really Renewable?-Dr. Levi Russell | #270
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Let's dive into renewable energy with the awesome Dr. Levi Russell. Wondering if it's as renewable as it sounds? Dr. Russell is here to explain it all without the confusing jargon. Imagine solar panels and wind turbines like superheroes saving the planet. Dr. Russell helps us understand how these cool technologies work in simple terms that even you…
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High Costs of Wind and Solar Worth It? -Dr. Levi Russell | #269
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Explore the economic trade-offs of wind and solar energy with Dr. Levi Russell. Delve into whether the high costs are justified in this insightful episode questioning the sustainability of renewable power.
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Sinful Usury Interest Rates? - Dr. Levi Russell | #268
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In this eye-opening episode, join Dr. Levi Russell as he demystifies the complex world of interest rates and explores the ethical implications of usury. Geared towards students, Dr. Russell breaks down the concept of usury, delving into its historical context and shedding light on how it impacts individuals and societies today. Discover the fine li…
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Women and Economic Freedom- Dr. Rosemarie Fike | #267
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In this enlightening episode, Dr. Rosemarie Fike explores the intersection of women's empowerment and economic freedom, shedding light on key insights that challenge and redefine traditional perspectives. A must-listen conversation on fostering equality and prosperity.
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Smashing Priceless Art -Protests or Terror? | #266
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Uncover the blurred lines between protest and terror as we explore the controversial act of smashing priceless art. Is it a form of protest or an act of terror? Tune in
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Light Bulb Freedom -Government Failure? | #265
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Tune in to 'Light Bulb Freedom: Government Failure?' and join the conversation on individual rights and government intervention. Explore the unintended consequences of well-intentioned policies as we shed light on a grassroots movement advocating for personal liberties. Don't miss this compelling episode—listen now and be part of the discussion!"…
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Charitable Gifts On the Street Moral? | #264
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Join us for a thought-provoking discussion on the morality of charitable gifts on the street in our latest episode, "Charitable Gifts On the Street: Moral?" Explore the ethical dimensions of spontaneous generosity. Listen now and share your thoughts!
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Entrepreneurship Insights - Chad Steenhoek | #263
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Embark on an entrepreneurial odyssey with Chad Steenhoek, unraveling his unparalleled insights in "Entrepreneurship Insights." Journey through the uncharted terrains of his triumphs, failures, and pivotal lessons, guiding listeners towards their own prosperity. Uncover practical wisdom and cutting-edge strategies from a trailblazing industry leader…
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Reason Your Way to God? Philosophy vs Theology -Pastor Timothy Roth | #262
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Join Pastor Timothy Roth in 'Reason Your Way to God? Philosophy vs Theology' as he delves into the age-old debate between philosophy and theology. Discover how these two disciplines intersect and diverge, and explore the profound questions surrounding faith, reason, and spirituality. Whether you're a philosopher, a theologian, or simply curious, th…
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Reformation, Confession, Church Differences -Pastor Timothy Roth | #261
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Tune in to Pastor Timothy Roth's captivating podcast episode delving into the Reformation's enduring legacy, the transformative power of Confession, and the nuances of present-day Church differences. Engage with history and modern spirituality—listen now for a profound understanding of faith's evolution and challenges."…
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In this new episode, we talk about unemployment in the US. We will examine how the employment market has altered over the past 20 years, particularly for men and women. We will simplify it and read the statistics and patterns that have shaped the labor market. It is more than simply numbers. It is about comprehending how the employment landscape ha…
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Winners and Losers - Government Protecting US Auto | #259
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Join our riveting podcast as we dissect the transformative impact of the U.S. government's protective measures on the auto industry. In this thought-provoking episode, we unravel the intricate dynamics shaping the fortunes of industry titans and the nuanced repercussions on consumer choices. Stay tuned to unravel the captivating narrative of resili…
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Power -Maybe Machiavelli Was Right | #258
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Let's talk about power! In this episode, we discuss whether the old ideas of Machiavelli, an intelligent thinker from the past, still make sense today. We'll break down the tricks, problems, and tough choices that come with having power. Join us for a chat about what Machiavelli can teach us about power in our world today. Listen now!…
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End Tax-Exempt Status for Churches | #257
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Dive into the contentious debate over tax-exempt status for churches. Uncover the historical context, grapple with the clash between religious freedom and fairness, and discover the tangible consequences. Join us for a thought-provoking exploration of this critical issue that's shaping our society. Don't miss this eye-opening episode!…
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Church Finance, How Should We Spend? | #256
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The most recent episode of "Church Finance, How Should We Spend?" examines the sensitive and frequently complicated subject of church budget distribution. Join our Gwartney Institute professors Russ, Peter, and Justin as they discuss ethical issues and best practices for allocating financial resources within a Christian group.…
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