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The Brian Lehrer Show

Friday, August 11, 2006
  • IODA  Long Tail example

    Opportunity Knocks

    The internet created brand new markets for niche products with websites like Netflix and Ebay. But some people find the new choices overwhelming. Wired Magazine editor Chris Anderson says a phenomenon he calls “The Long Tail” creates countless opportunities for consumers and shatters the notion of the blockbuster. But psychology professor Barry Schwartz says so much choice is debilitating. They debate the benefits and pitfalls of choice in an era of fragmented markets. Plus, more on the disrupted terror plot, limited choice at street fairs and listener calls on anti-terror frustrations.

Threatening Skies

Nisid Hajari, managing editor of Newsweek International
and
Rob Hugh-Jones, senior reporter in The World's London bureau
- on the disrupted plot to bring explosives on flights from Heathrow to New York and British counter-terrorism

» Nisid Hajari's bio at SAJA
» Rob Hugh-Jones' bio at The World

This Socks

Jonathan Bowles, director at the Center for an Urban Future, a nonpartisan think tank
- on why New York City street fairs don't reflect the culture of the city and have too many tube sock stands

» Center for an Urban Future's report on street fairs

Opportunity Knocks

Chris Anderson, editor-in-chief of Wired Magazine, author of The Long Tail: Why the Future of Business Is Selling Less of More (Hyperion, 2006)
- says niche audiences on the internet create countless opportunities for consumers
and
Barry Schwartz, professor of psychology at Swarthmore College and author of The Paradox of Choice: Why More Is Less (Harper Perennial, 2005)
- says too much choice is debilitating

» The Long Tail blog
» Barry Schwartz' website

Open Phones

Listeners vent about the hoops they're jumping through in the War on Terror

30 Issues in 30 Days

The Brian Lehrer Show

Once again, 30 Issues in 30 Days is taking on the election season by going beyond the horse race and examining the real issues that are at stake for the people of New York and New Jersey in the Mayoral and Gubernatorial contest. See the schedule and help craft the segments at the 30 Issues Wiki!

Michael Moore on Brian's 20th Anniversary

The Brian Lehrer Show

Live from the Greene Space: Michael Moore talks about his new documentary, Capitalism: A Love Story and Brian celebrates the 20 year anniversary of The Brian Lehrer Show.

Uncommon Indicators

The Brian Lehrer Show

The Brian Lehrer Show wants to hear how the economy is affecting the little things in your daily life. Share your stories and photos of the downturn.

Help us map abandoned lots, stalled construction and unsold condos.

Digesting Politics

Brian, Bob, and Andrea

WNYC's political team of Brian Lehrer, Bob Hennelly, and Andrea Bernstein talk politics and more over lunch each week. Hear the latest episode and subscribe to the podcast here!

Video Picks

The Brian Lehrer Show

Check out some recent video clips of interviews with guests and Brian Lehrer's weekly Web video picks.