Economic History

National | World | Economic History | Pop Eco | Interactive Articles

Once upon a time in Babylon

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Law and order are a common feature of everyday existence. But how did it come to be this way? Join Domenic as he ventures to Babylon and uncovers the very beginnings of law in the world.

The folly of growth via consumption

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History has shown that the balance of world power shifts in cycles. In a time of growing geopolitical uncertainty, what can American hyperconsumption and Chinese reinvestment tell us about the limits of economic growth via consumption? Join Felix in this final instalment of his three-part series to explore what the rise of China tells us about world power.

Empires on which the sun will never set

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How does history prescribe the narrative of changing world powers? What traits and attributes allowed nations to become empires so vast that ‘the sun never set’ on their lands? Join Felix in this second instalment of his three-part series to journey through history for answers to these questions.

The making of an economic superpower

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How can we know who qualifies as an economic superpower? What does history tell us about who that might be now, and in the future? Join Felix in this first instalment of his three-part series to explore the role of currency in answering these questions.

Building the blocks of blockchain: Part 1

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Modern blockchain technology was introduced as a method to securely timestamp digital documents and it has since revolutionised the world of finance and economics. Given the increasing popularity and adoption of these technologies, join David as he dives into the origins of blockchain in this two-part series.

Caffeine, Consciousness, and Capitalism

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Every day, 90% of the world’s population enjoys a caffeinated beverage. In this interdisciplinary piece, Josh draws on insights from history, cognitive science, and sometimes economics, as he sets out to answer the following question: has the rise of caffeine been a positive development for our species?

Book Review: Digital Gold by Nathaniel Popper

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Want to learn more about the engrossing history of Bitcoin? Join Hooi San Ng as she gives her verdict on the book ‘Digital Gold: Bitcoin and the Inside Story of the Misfits and Millionaires Trying to Reinvent Money’.