If states are laboratories, the lesson from Illinois is “Don’t do this, ever!” Kristina Rasmussen of the Illinois Policy Institute expounds on how to make a mess – and a continuing tragedy – through government  programs.

A detective who spent his whole career befriending and arresting “confidence men” (and women) tells all, in 1998.

In 2006, three scientists join us to explain the biotech revolution they helped to mount – and its consequences in medicine, industry and in our understanding of organic life itself.

Author Christina Hoff Sommers in an assertive 2005 conversation.

In 2008, J. Fred MacDonald, as historian and archivist, presents great recorded, illustrated material from his famous collection, now housed at the Library of Congress.

Frank Buckley, Professor of Law at George Mason University and author of The Once and Future King: The Rise and Fall of Crown Government, argues that Parliamentary regimes are generally better protectors of liberty than presidential ones. In vivid detail he supports that argument by drawing from the histories and modern conditions of the  governments of the United States, Canada and the U.K.

Stalin relaxing with his friends – any one of whom he might murder during the following week – as they disported themselves “In the Court of the Red Czar.” That was the title of Simon Sebag Montefiore’s book of 2004, which he joined us to discuss then.

How did the rebellious states form a government and go on to fight a stand-off war that killed 750,000 American soldiers on both sides? Three historical scholars joined in this 2006 discussion, rich in previously unheard stories. It fascinated listeners as well as the host.

In 2009 we visit – with the assistance of the great political mimic Bill Melberg – the last 12 American presidents.

Milt talks with Dr. Helen Smith about her new book Men on Strike: Why Men Are Boycotting Marriage, Fatherhood, and the American Dream – and Why It Matters.