Libertarian

Richard Epstein explains what the guilty plea of former Trump lawyer Michael Cohen -- and the conviction of former Trump campaign manager Paul Manafort -- means for the president's future.

Richard Epstein examines a recent lawsuit by a group of Asian-American students who claim that Harvard systematically discriminates against them in the admissions process, explaining how current legal standards can often lead to shadow affirmative action programs.

Richard Epstein looks at current controversies about federalism — including over environmental regulation and immigration — and discusses the Founders’ concept of subsidiarity and how it has changed over the years.

Richard Epstein looks at proposals to regulate tech companies over antitrust, privacy and free speech issues — and takes a look at the tech world’s embrace of a Universal Basic Income as the salve for automation-driven job losses.

Richard Epstein explains the shortcomings of President Trump’s trade policy, explores the best and worst-cases scenarios, and lays out the right — and wrong — ways to think about trade deficits.

Richard Epstein reacts to President Trump’s meeting with Vladimir Putin in Helsinki and explains how the Mueller investigation colors  the president’s views on Russia.

Richard Epstein grades the choice of Brett Kavanaugh for a seat on the Supreme Court, critiques the current confirmation process, and explains why “judicial activism” and “judicial restraint” are frequently mischaracterized. 

Richard Epstein reacts to the news that Anthony Kennedy is retiring from the Supreme Court, speculates on his possible replacements, and explains the potential implications for constitutional law.

As has become an annual tradition in the Trump era, the end of another Supreme Court session brings rumors of Justice Anthony Kennedy’s impending retirement. In this episode, Richard Epstein looks at Justice Kennedy’s legacy, considers whether lifetime terms on the Supreme Court are justified, and looks at the future of a post-Kennedy court.

Richard Epstein considers the pros and cons of America’s newfound diplomatic engagement with North Korea, and discusses related issues of trade, human rights, and presidential power. 

Richard Epstein explores the Supreme Court's ruling in the case of a Colorado baker who refused to make a cake for a gay marriage ceremony, critiques the judicial style of Anthony Kennedy, and explains how anti-discrimination laws have expanded beyond a useful scope.

Richard Epstein explains what the Constitution says about President Trump's ability to pardon himself, grapples with the constitutional standards for impeachment, and warns about the political excesses being engendered by the Mueller investigation.

Richard Epstein reacts to the recent Supreme Court decision in Epic Systems Corp v. Lewis, defending the right of employers to use arbitration and avoid class action lawsuits.

Richard Epstein examines the recent violence in Gaza and explains the hopelessness of current Middle East peace initiatives.

On Sunday, Treasury Secretary Mnuchin announced that “we’re putting the trade war [with China] on hold.” Meanwhile the NAFTA renegotiations seem to be stalling. Professors Epstein and White debate trade policy in theory and practice. Featuring cameo appearances by Ricardo, Keynes, Lincoln, Hamilton, Clay, Mnuchin, and Trump. Did you like the show? Please rate, review, and subscribe!