Episode · Freakonomics Radio · 2026-06-12

Books mentioned on 677. Can Backgammon Save Us from Ourselves?

1 book · With Masayuki Mochizuki, Frank Frigo, Marc Olsen, Robert Wachtel, Remington Davenport, Melissa Shin · Listen · Watch on YouTube

It brings strangers together. It teaches probability, strategy, and emotional control.

Stephen Dubner discussed The Backgammon Chronicles by Robert Wachtel.

Books mentioned, in the order they came up

We earn a commission if you buy through the store links below, at no cost to you.

1. 

   The Backgammon Chronicles

   Robert Wachtel · at 43:15

   Discussed

   “Here's how Bob Woolsey Tel described it in his book The Backgammon Chronicles, A Prose Adventure on Tour, Volume 1. Backgammon has evolved from a model like that of soccer, basketball, or tennis, where it is the fantastic inspired shot that will be the object of awe for years to come, to a sport like gymnastics, or ice skating, or”

   Stephen Dubner 677. Can Backgammon Save Us from Ourselves? 2026-06-12 ▶ Play 47:46

   Where to get it

   AmazonListen on Audible