To the Point
Behavioral Science and Political Change
Scientists of human behavior helped Barack Obama get to the White House. Now they're helping him "nudge" Americans to make "better" choices. We hear the pros and cons of a new form of leadership.
By Warren Olney • • 1h 0m ListenScientists of human behavior helped Barack Obama get to the White House. Now they're helping him "nudge" Americans to make "better" choices. We hear the pros and cons of a new form of leadership. Also, stocks continue rebound on good news about banks. On Reporter's Notebook, will there be less outrage over tax-funded bank bailouts if small-time investors can make a profit? What if the deal goes sour?
Banner image is an experimental mosaic portrait of Senator Barack Obama made out of American State flags: Tsevis
In this episode
3 storiesStocks Continue Rebound on Good News about Banks
There was a ray of light on Wall Street today, with the Dow Jones Industrial Average rising above 8000 on some good news about banks. Adrienne Carter is Financial Editor at BusinessWeek magazine.
Read the story6 minThe Behavioral Science behind Obama’s Politics of Change
Barack Obama wants all Americans to change their behavior, to make "better" choices about money, health and the use of energy. In his campaign, and now in his White House, he's relied on 29 behavioral scientists to formulate ways of "nudging" us all to accomplish his goals.
Read the story36 minPlan Encourages Main Street to Invest in Toxic Assets
Bank bailouts with taxpayer money have been a source of populist outrage. In need of public support for the massive spending it wants to stimulate the economy, the Obama Administration wants to establish a way for small investors to get in on the deal, to let Main Street sit at the table with Wall Street. We hear about the benefits and the risks.
Read the story7 min
