In this episode of the New Colossus Project, Raafet Azzouz sits down with the Daron Acemoglu, the 2024 Nobel laureate in economics and MIT professor whose groundbreaking research has transformed our understanding of economies, institutions, and the forces that shape prosperity. Raafet and Daron dive deep into Daron’s fascinating journey from immigrant to world-renowned economist, exploring his insights into why some nations succeed while others fail. They discuss the cultural shock Daron experienced when moving to the U.S. in the early ’90s, and how his early academic years shaped his groundbreaking work. The conversation also touches on the rapidly evolving landscape of artificial intelligence - will it deepen the divide or help level the playing field? Daron shares his thoughts on how AI is reshaping labor markets and income distribution, and what policies we need to ensure society doesn’t leave anyone behind as technology advances. They explore the complex relationship between democracy and economic growth, especially in emerging democracies, and how inclusive institutions play a critical role in today’s shifting political landscape.

Timestamps:

00:00 Intro

04:25 A Journey to MIT and the Heart of Economics

06:03 Tracing the Path to AI and Its Consequences

07:40 Future of AI

09:10 How Policymakers Can Promote Equity in a Changing Society

10:58 Democracy and Development: Institutions as the Backbone of Emerging Economies

14:29 Revitalizing Liberal Democracy: The Role of Inclusive Institutions in Today's Politics

18:27 Armenian Heritage and Life Journey: Shaping Identity and Values

21:57 Lessons from an Academic Journey

23:51 How Being a First-Generation Immigrant Shaped Curiosity and Innovation

25:32 Reflecting on the Journey and Lessons Learned Find the links to our socials in the comments.

McCormick #NewColossusProject #DaronAcemoglu #Economics #Institutions #AI #Democracy #InclusiveGrowth #Innovation #Leadership #MIT #NobelLaureate

In this episode of New Colossus Project, Raafet Azzouz sits down with Noubar Afeyan, founder and CEO of Flagship Pioneering, the company behind over 100 groundbreaking ventures in health and sustainability, including Moderna. As an immigrant who has created more than $60 billion in value, thousands of patents, and over 50 drugs in clinical development, Noubar shares his remarkable journey of innovation, entrepreneurship, and the transformative power of immigrant contributions.

Discover how bold "what-if" questions can lead to revolutionary breakthroughs and how Noubar’s passion for science and progress is shaping the future.

Subscribe for more inspiring stories from extraordinary individuals who are redefining the immigrant narrative.

Join the MIT New Colossus Project as we welcome Nobel laureate in Chemistry (2023) and MIT Professor Moungi Bawendi for an inspiring conversation.
Professor Bawendi, a Tunisian-French immigrant, shares his remarkable journey in Chemistry, including his groundbreaking research on quantum dots. You'll hear his unique perspective on embracing the outsider mindset to spark innovation and the importance of hybrid identities in today's world.
This episode is a must-listen for anyone who dreams of pushing boundaries and making a difference!

Audio taken from the full video produced by Lucie McCormick. Video is viewable at https://www.youtube.com/watch?v=9wsfW7kUUwk