Nov 16, 2011

Marketplace for Wednesday, November 16, 2011

On today's show, Freakonomics Radio's Stephen Dubner discussed the hidden side of Thanksgiving dinner. We contemplated the possibility of a eurozone breakup. The price of oil is skyrocketing. Robert Reich argued a healthy economy is not about re-distributing wealth. And NBA players have filed an anti-trust lawsuit.

Segments From this episode

What happens if the eurozone breaks up?

by Stephen Beard

Nov 16, 2011

For all its woes, the 17-member single currency zone is an feat of European cooperation. A breakup would have consequences in Europe and beyond.

Can the ECB save Europe?

by Stacey Vanek Smith

Nov 16, 2011

The U.S. central bank, known as the Federal Reserve, is the lender of last resort. Its bond-buying orgy bailed out banks during the financial crisis and rescued the economy. But its European equivalent has neither the ability not the will to do the same for the eurozone.

Mario Draghi, new president of the European Central Bank (ECB), speaks to the media following the first meeting of the ECB Governing Council with Draghi at the helm on Nov. 3, 2011 in Frankfurt am Main, Germany.

Ralph Orlowski/Getty Images

Gas prices are up, but drivers aren't to blame

by Bob Moon

Nov 16, 2011

The price of crude oil has jumped to more than $100 a barrel. Many analyst blame "speculators." But it turns out, these days "speculators" are often pensions and mutual funds, not just traditional traders.

Commentary

Reich: If the 1% had less, would the 99% be better off?

by Robert Reich

Nov 16, 2011

Join us for a week long commentary series asking that question. We'll hear from economists, academics, and the public.

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Final Note

Toxic chemicals in your baby shampoo

by Kai Ryssdal

Nov 16, 2011

Johnson & Johnson announced today it's going to start removing two toxic chemicals from its popular baby shampoo.

Where family ends for super committee and budget cutters

by David Gura

Nov 16, 2011

One idea of President Obama's that both parties have taken up is that government has to live within its means, just like families do. But the economics of a government are very different from those of a family.

Freakonomics Radio

Your Thanksgiving turkey is probably a product of artificial insemination

by Stephen Dubner

Nov 16, 2011

Freakonomics Radio's Stephen Dubner discusses why the turkey industry is built around artificial insemination.

NBA players file anti-trust lawsuit

by Kai Ryssdal

Nov 16, 2011

The suit looks to finally end the pro basketball lockout, but would also give the players triple the amount of their salaries for damages. The players' lawyer, David Boies, talks about the details.

On today’s show, Freakonomics Radio’s Stephen Dubner discussed the hidden side of Thanksgiving dinner. We contemplated the possibility of a eurozone breakup. The price of oil is skyrocketing. Robert Reich argued a healthy economy is not about re-distributing wealth. And NBA players have filed an anti-trust lawsuit.