Theo Jaffee Podcast #11: Bryan Caplan - You Will Not Stampede Me: Essays on Non-Conformism
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Feb 26, 2024 
Bryan Caplan, Professor of economics, discusses nonconformism, rationality, AI risk, polyamory, academia, education, and societal norms, challenging conformity and advocating for independent thinking. He shares insights on writing, natalism, and hedonic adaptation, emphasizing the importance of originality and unique perspectives in various professional and academic environments.
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How GMU Became A Nonconformist Hub
- George Mason built a heterodox econ hub via donor-funded centers and strategic hires.
- Tyler Cowen played a focal role in recruiting talent and shaping GMU's public profile.
Tenure Enables Dissent But Is Flawed
- Tenure offers protection for unconventional work but the system is overall disastrous.
- Caplan uses tenure to write boldly yet criticizes tenure's high systemic costs.
Favor Math, But Offer Practical CS
- Prioritize math fundamentals over early specialization in CS; substitute CS for foreign language where sensible.
- Math unlocks many later technical paths while CS in high school gives practical job skills to many students.