logo
episode-header-image
Jan 2023
14m 20s

Is There a Better Economic System than C...

Economics Explained
About this episode

Over time it is almost taken as given that science and technology will evolve and improve over time. But does the same hold true for the field of economics? Will future generations achieve superior levels of wealth due to advancements in economics or have we already solved everything there is to discover?

Up next
Aug 11
Why do We Still Need to Work?
A century ago, economist John Maynard Keynes confidently predicted that by 2030, we would only be working 15 hours a week. Yet, here we are—working harder than ever! While technology has dramatically boosted productivity, our work hours remain largely unchanged, and the prevalenc ... Show More
15m 56s
Aug 5
Do We Still Need Central Banks?
Almost every nation relies on a central bank, but the US is buzzing with talk of scrapping the Fed—the globe’s mightiest financial force! From its 1694 origins to battling today’s debt and inequality crises, we break down why central banks are crucial and what chaos could unfold ... Show More
18m 39s
Jul 21
Iran's Economic Dilemma
Iran boasts vast oil reserves, a strategic trading position, and a skilled workforce; however, sanctions and internal issues hinder its progress. From black-market oil to power outages, discover why this energy giant struggles to thrive. Can it break free from its economic troubl ... Show More
16 m
Recommended Episodes
Apr 2016
242. Is the World Ready for a Guaranteed Basic Income?
A lot of full-time jobs in the modern economy simply don't pay a living wage. And even those jobs may be obliterated by new technologies. What's to be done so that financially vulnerable people aren't just crushed? It may finally be time for an idea that economists have promoted ... Show More
36m 42s
Apr 2017
284. Is Income Inequality Inevitable? (Earth 2.0 Series)
In pursuit of a more perfect economy, we discuss the future of work; the toxic remnants of colonization; and whether giving everyone a basic income would be genius -- or maybe the worst idea ever. 
40m 57s
Dec 2020
93. Economic Progress vs Other Types of Progress
Many governments think that economic progress is their most important goal. Some people, however, think that other types of progress are equally important for a country. Discuss both these views and give your own opinion.   economic advancement economic advances economic growth t ... Show More
5m 11s
Dec 2019
An honest look at price, innovation and who powers the economy | Mariana Mazzucato
Where does wealth come from, who creates it and what destroys it? In this deep dive into global economics, Mariana Mazzucato explains how we lost sight of what value means and why we need to rethink our current financial systems -- so capitalism can be steered toward a bold, inno ... Show More
18m 41s
Mar 2023
The technology paradox: Is it a great equalizer for some, but digital divider for others?
Technology has made enormous strides over the past few decades, improving many people’s lives, and creating incredible economic, scientific, and medical breakthroughs. For some, it has been “the great equalizer”. But others are being left behind in a widening social and economic ... Show More
22m 17s
Mar 2024
Les personnes les plus riches sont-elles les plus intelligentes ?
Dans nos sociétés occidentales, le mérite, comme vecteur de réussite professionnelle, joue un rôle essentiel. On considère souvent que, dans ces conditions, l'intelligence est le principal moteur de l'ascension sociale, et donc de l'accès à des professions mieux rémunérées. En ré ... Show More
2 m
Oct 2021
The Life Scientific at 10: What does it take to be a scientist?
How damaging is the stereotype of white males in white coats? Do scientists think differently? Or do the qualities we associate with being a nerd do them a disservice? Is specialism the best way to solve 21st century problems when so many great discoveries are made in the cracks ... Show More
56m 46s
May 2021
Is dumbness our destiny?
Most of us are healthier, wealthier and better educated than ever before. We have greater access to knowledge and expertise than any previous generation. So, why do humans keep doing stupid things? And why is the world awash with conspiracy? Have we already passed “peak intellige ... Show More
29m 6s
Jul 2023
Humanity's Thousand Year Struggle Over Technology and Prosperity
In the Middle Ages, agricultural advancements enriched the nobility and the Church, which used the wealth generated to build themselves magnificent houses and cathedrals, while the peasants went hungry. The early years of England’s industrial revolution brought stagnant incomes f ... Show More
39m 46s