Is socialism destined to fail? What role should government play in the economy? And why do debates about capitalism and socialism often miss the bigger picture?

In this episode of Polypolitics, Christopher Turner sits down with economist and author Dr. Doug Cardell to discuss the ideas behind his bestselling book, Why Socialism Struggles. Drawing on decades of experience in economics and higher education, Dr. Cardell explains why centrally planned economies struggle, how incentives shape economic outcomes, and where government intervention can help, or hurt.

The conversation also explores housing affordability, healthcare, education, lobbying, free markets, and the challenges of balancing economic theory with real-world policy.

Whether you agree or disagree, this episode is designed to encourage thoughtfuldiscussion about the economic systems that shape our society.

• Why socialism struggles in practice
• Capitalism vs. socialism vs. fascism
• Housing affordability and government regulation
• The role of incentives in economics
• Universal services and social safety nets
• Healthcare and free-market principles
• Education and preparing for the modern economy
• Lobbying and political influence
• Economic growth and historical prosperity
• Can there ever be a perfect economic system?