Capital Account Season 1 Episode 140 David Collum Presents His 2012 "Year in Review" Ahead of the Mayan Non-Apocalypse

David Collum, a professor of organic chemistry at Cornell University, invites Capital Account to join him on his annual "Year in Review." In this special episode, Collum takes a humorous and insightful look back at the events of 2012, including the US presidential election, the European debt crisis, and the anticipation of the Mayan calendar's supposed end-of-the-world prophecy. Collum's analysis is not limited to the financial realm, as he also shares his thoughts on various social and cultural issues that arose throughout the year.

Throughout the episode, Collum converses with Capital Account host Lauren Lyster about each topic, offering witty commentary and thought-provoking insights. The two discuss the impact of the 2012 US presidential election, and Collum shares his belief that the election was ultimately won by the candidate who most effectively rallied his base of supporters, rather than by any particular policy stance. He also opines on the various conspiracy theories that arose during the election cycle.

Collum then shifts his focus to the European debt crisis, offering his take on the complex economic and political factors that have contributed to the ongoing crisis. He also analyzes the role of the Eurozone and the European Union, and the challenges they are currently facing in dealing with the crisis.

In the latter half of the episode, Collum takes on the popular myth surrounding the Mayan calendar, and the widespread anticipation of a supposed doomsday event to occur on December 21, 2012. Collum provides historical context and scientific analysis to debunk this idea, arguing that it was a misreading of the Mayan calendar, and that there was no factual basis for the supposed prophecy.

Throughout the episode, Collum offers a refreshingly candid and humorous take on each topic, infusing his commentary with a genuine enthusiasm and curiosity. His insights touch on a wide range of issues, from politics and economics to culture and religion. As a professor of organic chemistry, Collum's perspectives provide a unique and invaluable lens through which to view the events of 2012 and beyond.