What was the writing process like for 'Freakonomics'?

Levitt and Dubner decided to write 'Freakonomics' primarily to make money, not from a passion to tell a specific story. They felt liberated by the assumption that no one would read it, allowing them to break rules and have more fun with the writing process.

Which topics in 'Freakonomics' caused the most controversy?

Surprisingly, a brief mention of car seats generated significant backlash. While abortion and crime were expected to be controversial, the careful way it was presented in 'Freakonomics' allowed it to be embraced by both pro-choice and pro-life readers.

Why was the title 'Freakonomics' initially rejected by publishers?

Publishers felt the proposed title 'Freakonomics,' suggested by Levitt's sister, was too unconventional and potentially off-putting, especially given the high advance they had paid. They suggested alternatives like 'E-Ray Vision' before reluctantly agreeing to 'Freakonomics'.

How did the controversy surrounding Levitt and Dubner's work evolve with subsequent books?

While the first book 'Freakonomics' was largely well-received, their subsequent books, particularly those touching on topics identified as 'climate change' and others in 'Think Like a Freak,' generated more significant backlash, eventually leading them to stop writing books together.

What was the 'Freakonomics' approach to golf?

Levitt developed tools based on data and smart practice to improve golf performance, even considering writing a book about it. He explored taking talented but undisciplined individuals, like potentially Peter Diamandis or Larry Summers, and applying the 'Freakonomics' method to improve their game dramatically.

What role did luck play in the success of 'Freakonomics'?

Levitt emphasizes that luck played a significant role. A good review in The Wall Street Journal and Jon Stewart's positive coverage on The Daily Show were key external factors that helped the book gain traction and sell exceptionally well, suggesting a much lower probability of such success.

Key Moments

How Steve Levitt came to write Freakonomics & the topics which caused the most controversy

Peter Attia MD

People & Blogs3 min read21 min video

Jun 4, 2021|1,201 views|32

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Key Moments

TL;DR

Steve Levitt discusses the unexpected success of 'Freakonomics,' its controversial topics, and the collaborative writing process.

Key Insights

Levitt was initially hesitant to collaborate with journalist Steven Dubner, finding the interview process grueling.

The success of 'Freakonomics' was largely unexpected; both Levitt and Dubner believed the book would be largely unread.

The controversial chapter on abortion and crime was surprisingly well-received by both pro-choice and pro-life readers due to its data-driven, neutral presentation.

A brief mention of car seats generated more backlash than the more sensitive topics of abortion and crime.

Levitt attributes the book's unlikely success to a combination of luck, good timing, and effective storytelling.

The title 'Freakonomics' was a suggestion from Levitt's sister and was initially resisted by publishers.

UNEXPECTED COLLABORATION AND INITIAL HESITATION

Steve Levitt recounts his initial reluctance to work with journalist Steven Dubner on a New York Times article. Despite his disinterest in self-promotion, his mother's encouragement convinced him to agree to the interview. Levitt found the extensive, non-stop questioning by Dubner to be a painful but ultimately transformative experience, teaching him the value of asking questions himself.

THE BIRTH OF FREAK ECONOMICS AND UNEXPECTED SUCCESS

The collaboration evolved into writing 'Freakonomics' not out of a shared passion, but a mutual desire for financial gain. Levitt explains that they had a lucrative book deal with no concrete idea of the content. The assumption that the book would go unnoticed freed them to experiment and break conventions, contributing to its unique and ultimately widespread appeal.

AMBIVALENCE TOWARDS THE ABORTION-CRIME THESIS

While Levitt anticipated significant backlash for the chapter linking legalized abortion to reduced crime rates, its actual reception was surprisingly positive. He contrasts this with earlier media portrayals of his academic work on the topic, which were often misconstrued and generated hostility. The book's narrative approach allowed for a more nuanced understanding that satisfied diverse viewpoints.

THE CAR SEAT CONTROVERSY AND THE POWER OF NARRATIVE

Ironically, a brief mention of car seats in 'Freakonomics' generated disproportionately more negative feedback than the more sensitive discussion on abortion and crime. Levitt marvels at how the same chapter on abortion could be embraced by both pro-choice and pro-life readers, highlighting the power of compelling storytelling to bridge ideological divides and present complex data in an accessible manner.

EVOLVING PERCEPTIONS AND THE CHALLENGE OF BREAKING THROUGH CLUTTER

Levitt notes that subsequent books, particularly those touching on topics like climate change, led to increased criticism. The initial perception of 'Freakonomics' as a fun, lighthearted exploration evolved into one where the authors were seen as 'jerks.' He reflects on the difficulty of breaking through the noise in modern publishing and media, emphasizing the significant role of luck and unforeseen events in an endeavor's success.

THE 'FREAKONOMICS' OF GOLF AND UNCONVENTIONAL TEACHING

The conversation touches upon Levitt's personal fascination with applying 'Freakonomics' principles to golf, even contemplating a book project with Peter Attia as a potential protagonist. He shares an anecdote about attempting to teach golf to former Treasury Secretary Larry Summers, who proved to be an exceptionally challenging student, illustrating the complexities of applying data-driven strategies to individual learning.

THE ORIGIN OF THE 'FREAKONOMICS' TITLE

The distinctive title 'Freakonomics' was conceived by Levitt's late sister, who possessed immense creativity. Despite initial resistance from publishers who favored more conventional titles like 'E-Ray Vision,' the title was eventually accepted and is now considered integral to the book's identity and appeal, underscoring the importance of innovative branding.

Mentioned in This Episode

●Companies

●Books

●Concepts

●People Referenced

Comparison of Topics and Associated Controversy Level in Freakonomics Books

Data extracted from this episode

Topic	Book Mentioned	Controversy Level
Car Seats	Freakonomics	Surprisingly high (despite only 3 lines/1 paragraph)
Abortion and Crime	Freakonomics	Initially expected to be high, but well-received due to careful storytelling
Real Estate Agents (KKK comparison)	Freakonomics	Lighthearted, minimal backlash; leader invited to speak at National Realtors Association
Climate Change	Second Book	Generated significant backlash ('super pissed off')
General Topics	Third Book (Think Like a Freak)	Alienated most people, considered 'jerks' by both left and right

Common Questions

Stephen Dubner approached Steve Levitt to write an article about him for The New York Times after Levitt won the Clark Medal. This initial interaction, despite Levitt's initial hesitation, led to a lengthy interview that eventually resulted in their collaboration.

Topics

Business & Entrepreneurship Economics & Markets Society & Philosophy Behavioral Economics Data Analysis Market Dynamics Social Science Book Publishing Controversial Topics Author Collaboration

Mentioned in this video

People

Steve Dubner

Co-author of Freakonomics, approached Steve Levitt to write an article about him for The New York Times, leading to their collaboration.

Susan Gluck

The agent who represented Steve Levitt and Steve Dubner for the 'Freakonomics' book deal, successfully negotiating with publishers.

Robin Williams

Mentioned as a comparison to Steve Levitt's sister for her creativity and unconventional way of functioning in the world.

Larry Summers

Former Secretary of the Treasury and President of Harvard, who sought Levitt's help to improve his golf handicap.

Jon Stewart

Host of The Daily Show who helped popularize 'Freakonomics' through his positive and cool portrayal.

Concepts

Clark Medal

Award Steve Levitt had won prior to Steve Dubner's article, contributing to the interest in writing about him.

Roe v. Wade

The Supreme Court decision legalizing abortion in the US, which Levitt and Dubner explored in relation to crime rates in 'Freakonomics'.

Media

Wall Street Journal

Publication that provided a positive review for 'Freakonomics', contributing to its success.

Freakonomics

The influential book co-authored by Steve Levitt and Steve Dubner, known for its unconventional approach to economics and surprising popularity.

Organizations

The Daily Show

Television show where Steve Levitt appeared, and Jon Stewart's endorsement helped make 'Freakonomics' seem 'really cool'.

New York Times

Publication where Steve Dubner initially approached Steve Levitt to write an article about him.

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