Freakonomics Radio

675. Has the New York Times Become a Games Company?

May 15, 2026·57 min·5-min readnarrativeculture
Podzilla Summary (5 min)
TLDR
This episode of Freakonomics Radio explores the cultural, psychological, and economic significance of games, arguing that play is not just for children but a vital, soul-nourishing human activity. It examines how games shape identity, build community, and even sustain major institutions l

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Guest

E

Eric Zimmerman

narrative on Freakonomics Radio

Mentions

Books, people, and resources mentioned in this episode.

People

Eric ZimmermanAlex HardimanJonathan KnightStephen DubnerBernard SuitsKatie Salen Tekinbas

Books

The Grasshopper, Games, Life, and Utopiaby Bernard SuitsRules of Playby Eric Zimmerman, Katie Salen Tekinbas

Companies

The New York TimesZynga

Products & Tools

WordleDiner DashFarmville

Topics

Board GamesFuture Of WorkGamingPhilosophyTech IndustryVideo Games

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