GoodFellows: Conversations on Economics, History & Geopolitics The Right Side of History with Tyler Cowen | GoodFellows | Hoover Institution
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Jan 31, 2026 
Tyler Cowen, economist and public intellectual; Niall Ferguson, historian specializing in globalism; John Cochrane, economist focused on policy; H.R. McMaster, former national security advisor with military insight. They debate Davos and globalization, whether Trump is a globalist, tariffs and supply chains, Europe’s strategic limits, rising urban collectivist rhetoric, AI’s impact on elites, Minnesota protests and immigration, Iran strike odds, and China’s military purge.
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US Still Central To European Defense
- H.R. McMaster and Niall Ferguson emphasize the US remains indispensable for European deterrence due to nuclear and logistical capabilities.
- Europe lacks the military and nuclear infrastructure to achieve full strategic autonomy.
Europe's Growth Hamstrung By Policy Choices
- John Cochrane and Tyler Cowen note Europe faces long‑term economic drag from policies like decommissioning nuclear plants.
- Slow deregulation and selective adoption of US innovations will keep Europe behind but still prosperous.
Restore Agency With Teenage Jobs
- Tyler Cowen recommends teenage jobs by 16.5 and early family formation to restore agency and improve mental health.
- He links employment and family timing to stronger social outcomes for young people.
