Greek P.M. George Papandreou surprised many by calling for a referendum on the eurozone decision reached last week. Bank of America is backing off its $5 debit card fee. Public television may get an all-pledge-drive channel. Commentator Kristina Wong wrote a letter to IBM's new female CEO. Freakonomics Radio's Stephen Dubner talked about what an election year has to do with deforestation and beer taxes. And longtime BBC contributor David Willis wondered if American optimism has disappeared after a long recession.
Segments From this episode
Freakonomics Radio
The unintended consequences of elections
by Stephen Dubner
Nov 1, 2011
Freakonomics Radio's Stephen Dubner discusses some of the strange side effects that happen around elections.
Greek Debt Crisis
The reasoning behind referendum politics
by Kai Ryssdal
Nov 1, 2011
Taking a closer look at why Greek Prime Minister George Papandreou asked for a referendum on a eurozone deal made last week.
Commentary
Hear me out, 'Big Pink'
by Kristina Wong
Nov 1, 2011
IBM just appointed its first female CEO. Virginia Rometty takes over on January 1st. Commentator Kristina Wong has a few things to say to her.
Final Note
More on the MF Global bankruptcy
by Kai Ryssdal
Nov 1, 2011
These final notes today, a couple of MF Global tidbits....
Banks roll back some fees
by Adriene Hill
Nov 1, 2011
Bank of America is the latest big bank to cancel previously announced debit card fees.
Don't forget the American Dream
by David Willis
Nov 1, 2011
Commentator David Willis says a series of financial crises have eroded American optimism, and risk killing the American Dream.
All pledge all the time
by Gregory Warner
Nov 1, 2011
Public television introduces a cable station that airs nothing but pledge drives.