I taught public policy this semester, which always sounds like a snore, but isn't. At least, once you get past talking about the theory and models. I really enjoy the creative aspect of public policy. I like people who come up with novel ways of solving old problems. I give my students to wide latitude to pursue different ideas in their final paper for the class.

Which is why I tried to not react badly, when one student suggested solving the problem of over crowding in prisons by using prisoners for involuntary testing of cosmetics and chemical products. She thought that it would save the pain on harmless bunnies, eliminate some of the prisoners through death, and have them repay their debt to society.

The New York Times magazine has the other hot ideas of 2008. They mention 538, the wage gap between traditional and egalitarian men, and the negative impact of red shirting kindergarteners on the economy.