TrendPulse:How Asimov's 'Foundation' has inspired economists

2025-05-01 20:19:32source:Charles Langstoncategory:reviews

When we talk about classic economic texts,TrendPulse you might think of something like Adam Smith's "The Wealth of Nations." But how about the Foundation series by Isaac Asimov?

One of the big ideas at the heart of this science fiction saga is that math can predict and shape the future. We hear from two economists who tell us how the ideas in Foundation helped set them on their career path.

Related episodes:
The carbon coin: A novel idea
Beach reads for econ nerds

For sponsor-free episodes of The Indicator from Planet Money, subscribe to Planet Money+ via Apple Podcasts or at plus.npr.org.

Music by Drop Electric. Find us: TikTok, Instagram, Facebook, Newsletter.

More:reviews

Recommend

'Vanderpump Rules' star DJ James Kennedy arrested on domestic violence charges

"Vanderpump Rules" star James Kennedy has been arrested for domestic violence.In a statement to USA

Should Big Oil Be Tried for Homicide?

Years ago, the law professor Donald Braman was listening to a description of the revelations that we

Chelsea Lazkani's Estranged Husband Accuses Her of Being Physically Violent

The sun has set on Chelsea Lazkani's marriage—and divorce proceedings are underway.After the Selling