deregulation

Deregulation refers to the process of removing or reducing state regulations, typically in the economic sphere. It is the undoing or repeal of governmental regulation of the economy. Deregulation gained prominence in the late 20th century, particularly in the 1980s, as a means to promote economic growth and efficiency by fostering competition and market forces.

The episodes discuss deregulation primarily in the context of its impact on the American economy and society. Several discussions focus on the Reagan years and the rise of the "Yuppie" class, linking deregulation to changes in economic and political landscapes. Other episodes critically examine deregulation’s consequences, including its effects on energy supply, coal miners' health, and broader economic stability, often in relation to political figures and their policies.