Taxes on home-buying are foolish

2025-11-17

For most of history parents have wanted sons, but in recent years mums and dads in the rich world have shown an emerging preference for girls. We explain why this is.

Politicians have begun taking an interest. Click the link [in our bio] to find out how they are trying to “uplift” boys

Video supported by @mishcondereya

2025-11-05

Trillions of dollars are being poured into artificial intelligence. Our deputy editor, Tom Standage and our AI writer, Alex Hern, ask whether investors’ big bet might make sense.

Click the link to watch this week’s show and find out what could happen if the AI stockmarket blows up.

https://www.economist.com/finance-and-economics/2025/09/07/what-if-the-ai-stockmarket-blows-up

2025-09-25

As strength training gains popularity, many are turning their attention to the crucial role of protein in building muscle. In this episode on wellness trends, the host of Babbage Alok Jha and senior science writer Tim Cross examine the science behind protein intake, how much is needed and how it supports muscle growth.

00:00 – What role does protein play in our diet?
00:53 – Where does dietary protein come from?
01:39 – What are the recommended daily guidelines for protein intake?
02:35 – How much protein is needed for muscle growth?
03:27 – Are there risks to consuming high levels of protein?
04:09 – Does protein offer other health benefits?
04:53 – Are protein-enriched foods and supplements effective?
06:08 – What is whey protein?06:58 – How can listeners optimise their protein

2025-09-13

Every four minutes a car is stolen in Britain—but where do they end up? We tracked the new global black market in stolen vehicles.

2025-09-10

What do Americans really think of Donald Trump? John Prideaux, our US editor, breaks down the latest data to find out how popular the president is.