Uncover the surprising truths behind cousin marriage and its global prevalence.

Shocking data shows consanguinity occurs in approximately 10% of marriages worldwide, with some countries like Pakistan occurring in at least half of all marriages.

But what are the real health and societal impacts?

In this eye-opening episode, economist Munir shares groundbreaking research using 40 million genealogical histories from the US, revealing that children of cousin marriages face a five-year reduction in lifespan, with effects extending throughout life, not just childhood. You'll discover how cultural, economic, and societal factors sustain these practices, even in wealthy nations with strong education systems, challenging common assumptions.

Professor Munir Squires:

https://economics.ubc.ca/profile/munir-squires/

“Health Effects of Cousin Marriage: Evidence from US Genealogical Records”:

https://www.aeaweb.org/articles?id=10.1257/aeri.20230544

Timestamps:

00:00 Intro

00:41 How Common is Cousin Marriage?

05:24 Health Effects of Cousin Marriage (Academic Literature)

10:52 Munir’s Research

24:46 Results of Munir’s Research

30:19 Navigating Cultural & Religious Sensitivity

32:31 Broader Social & Economic Implications

43:43 Why Industrialisation Changed Marriage Patterns

54:26 Why cousin marriage persisted historically

57:22 Future Research? (Economic & Social Impacts)

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Small economies often defy expectations, thriving despite limited resources and geographic challenges. This episode explores their surprising resilience and unique strategies, revealing lessons that could transform larger nations' approaches to growth. Discover how globalization, digital trade, and strategic specialization propel these nations to success, and learn about their governance agility and stability.

Despite facing global shocks, many small economies have shown remarkable resilience. Join us for insights from development economist Robert Read, as we uncover the real drivers of economic success and the future of small nations.

Professor Robert Read:

https://www.lancaster.ac.uk/lums/people/robert-read

“Growth volatility and resilience in small economies: The impacts of the 2008 financial crisis and the Covid-19 pandemic”:

https://www.taylorfrancis.com/chapters/edit/10.4324/9781032703893-5/growth-volatility-resilience-small-economies-harvey-armstrong-robert-read

Timestamps:

00:00: Intro

00:39: Why Study Small Economies?

08:06: What is a Small Economy?

14:29: Robert’s Research

26:18: Why Have Small Economies Been Successful?

35:50: Are Natural Resources a Curse?

43:57: Why Have Large Economies Done Badly?

49:50: Economic Policy & Money in Small Economies

59:42: Strong Small Economies During Financial Crisis

01:05:34: Lessons for Small Economies

01:14:52: Climate Change Impacts on Small Economies

01:17:15: Future Research on Small Economies & Takeaways

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Most countries focus on the political virtues of representation, but what if quotas actually change the quality of governance? I sit down with Professor Patrick Francois to uncover how strategic use of political quotas, especially in India, can break the grip of identity-driven politics and elevate governance standards. As ever, please like and subscribe if you enjoy! 😊

Professor Patrick Francois:

https://economics.ubc.ca/profile/patrick-francois/

‘Reservations and the politics of fear’:

https://www.sciencedirect.com/science/article/abs/pii/S0047272723001457

Timestamps:

00:00: Intro

00:42: What are Political Quotas?

02:42: Political Quotas in India

08:25: Are Political Quotas D.E.I?

13:50: How Common are Political Quotas?

16:57: Political Quotas & Socialism

23:37: Patrick’s Research & the ‘Politics of Fear’

32:48: How Political Quotas Improve Governance

37:08: Are Political Quotas Needed in Strong Liberal Democracies?

44:03: How Do You Measure Governance Quality?

51:34: Are Political Quotas Pragmatic to Implement?

58:17: Future Research to Build Upon Patrick’s Findings

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