Spring Forward, Fall Back…or Just Stop? For most U.S. residents, this weekend marks that annual rite of spring, when we advance our clocks by one hour, sacrificing precious time for the promise of extended summer daylight—a ritual solidified into law by the “Uniform Time Act” of 1966.
While its original intention was to save energy, many believe time has run out on this clock-changing practice, calling the shifts inconvenient, a drain on productivity, and bad for our health. Those for the practice proclaim that longer summer hours lead to a higher quality of life, healthier economies, and better mental health.
In this bonus episode, health economist Joan Costa-i-Font and New York Times editorial board member Binyamin Appelbaum debate whether it’s time to end daylight savings (DST) once and for all.
Listen now on YouTube, Apple Podcasts, or Spotify. As always, let us know what you think.
Note: We have employed the colloquial ‘Daylight Savings Time’ phrasing used by our debaters and moderator.
END DAYLIGHT SAVINGS TIME
Joan Costa-i-Font
Health Economist at the London School of Economics
KEEP DAYLIGHT SAVINGS TIME
Binyamin Appelbaum
Member of the New York Times Editorial Board
MODERATOR
John Donvan
Host and Moderator-in-Chief
Did You Know?
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Daylight Saving Time (DST) was first introduced in Germany in 1916 to conserve fuel during World War as an energy-saving measure
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While 70 countries observe DST, many—including Japan, China, and most of Africa—do not
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Studies show a spike in health emergencies the week after DST begins in spring – Shore Medical Center study noted about a 24% increase in heart attacks on the Monday after the “spring forward” compared to other Mondays
POINT/COUNTERPOINT
Is it Time to End Daylight Savings Time?
END DST: Joan Costa-i-Font
“Health deterioration is the main consequence of DST. Evidence of increases in heart attacks, accidents, suicides, medical errors, strokes, all happening around the time change.”
KEEP DST: Binyamin Appelbaum
“We know that darkness throws people off. It makes them sad. It depresses them…the idea that there’s some system that would be perfectly healthy, I think is wrong.”
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Debate shines a light on critical issues. As we explore the potential discontinuation of Daylight Savings Time, we understand how informed discourse can deepen our grasp of complex topics. By fostering thoughtful, respectful debate, we bring varied perspectives together to find common ground. Assist us in continuing these important conversations. Donate today to ensure our work persists.
