We take it as a given, almost a fact of nature like the seasons or the geography of continents, that different parts of the world enjoy different levels of prosperity. But there's nothing "natural" about this since this is almost entirely within human control. The differences are stark, and at one end of the scale, … Continue reading On Technology, Prosperity and Dysfunctional Ideologies
Globalization
Wide-bodied Globalization
Hi from Edison NJ. Got here from Mumbai on Wednesday morning at 4:40 AM, nearly an hour ahead of schedule. Too damn early. I suppose if the flight was arriving at 11 PM, then it would have arrived an hour late. Natural perversity of the universe. OK, I am done with the complaining bits. Now … Continue reading Wide-bodied Globalization
In Praise of Dead White Men
Brazilian President Luiz Inacio Lula Da Silva's recent accusation that the financial crisis was caused by "white people with blue eyes" at a joint press conference with UK Prime Minister Brown is illuminating if not entirely accurate. [1] Everyone involved in the financial crisis certainly does not have blue eyes, although they may all be … Continue reading In Praise of Dead White Men
India and Australia
There can be no doubt that Australia is looming larger and larger on the Indian horizon. Speaking personally, thanks to my participation with the LAFIA2008 -- Leading Australia's Future in Asia-Pacific -- delegation in July, I have gained an increased appreciation of the issues that will draw Australia and India into a deeper strategic and … Continue reading India and Australia
Religious Affiliation in the US
A NY Times report by Neela Banerjee refers to a new survey of religious affiliation by the Pew Forum on Religion and Public Life. The report shows, for example, that every religion is losing and gaining members, but that the Roman Catholic Church “has experienced the greatest net losses as a result of affiliation changes.” … Continue reading Religious Affiliation in the US
Debunking Myths about China and India
Pranab Bardhan, a professor of mine at UC Berkeley, whom we have met before here (see Crouching Tiger, Lumbering Elephant, and Pranab Bardhan on the Indian Economy, for instance) has an excellent article in the Boston Review titled "What Makes a Miracle: Some myths about the Rise of China and India." (Hat tip: Yuvaraj Galada.) … Continue reading Debunking Myths about China and India
Blinder on Offshoring
Alan Blinder claims that "Free Trade's Great, but Offshoring Rattles Me" in a Washintonpost.com article. He has dug up an old 2004 US election issue. He begins with I'm a free trader down to my toes. Always have been. Yet lately, I'm being treated as a heretic by many of my fellow economists. Why? Because … Continue reading Blinder on Offshoring
