
677. Can Backgammon Save Us from Ourselves?
From Freakonomics Radio by Freakonomics Radio + Stitcher
June 12, 2026 · 59 min · Episode 677
About this episode
Stephen Dubner explores the resurgence of backgammon and its benefits in teaching strategy and emotional control.
It brings strangers together. It teaches probability, strategy, and emotional control. It has even helped N.F.L. teams win the Super Bowl. Stephen Dubner explores why this ancient game is having a renaissance. (Part two of a series, “We Are All Gamers Now.”)
People in this episode
Host: Stephen Dubner
Topics covered
- backgammon
- strategy
- probability
- emotional control
- games
- social interaction
Keywords
- backgammon
- N.F.L.
- Super Bowl
- strategy
- probability
- emotional control
- games
Mentioned in this episode
Organizations: N.F.L.
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