#810
Mentioned in 44 episodes
The Rational Optimist
How Prosperity Evolves
Book • 2010
In 'The Rational Optimist', Matt Ridley presents a bold and provocative interpretation of economic history, arguing that the innate human tendency to trade goods and services, along with specialization, is the source of modern human civilization.
The book covers the entire sweep of human history from the Stone Age to the Internet, highlighting how life is improving at an accelerating rate through increased food availability, income, and life span, while disease, child mortality, and violence are decreasing globally.
Ridley emphasizes the role of free trade, individual rights, and innovation in enhancing human prosperity and natural biodiversity despite potential setbacks[2][4][5].
The book covers the entire sweep of human history from the Stone Age to the Internet, highlighting how life is improving at an accelerating rate through increased food availability, income, and life span, while disease, child mortality, and violence are decreasing globally.
Ridley emphasizes the role of free trade, individual rights, and innovation in enhancing human prosperity and natural biodiversity despite potential setbacks[2][4][5].
Mentioned by
Mentioned in 44 episodes
Mentioned by 
Jonathan Haidt in the context of discussing long-term historical trends and human adaptability.
Jonathan Haidt in the context of discussing long-term historical trends and human adaptability.
197 snips
Jonathan Haidt on Adjusting to Smartphones and Social Media
Mentioned by 
Bill Gurley when discussing the link between free trade, the exchange of ideas, and human prosperity.
Bill Gurley when discussing the link between free trade, the exchange of ideas, and human prosperity.
182 snips
Ep9. GPT-4o, Astra, Multi Modal, China Tariffs, Tech Earnings | BG2 with Bill Gurley & Brad Gerstner
Mentioned by Justin Khanna as a book he is rereading, finding its optimistic message valuable in uncertain times.
67 snips
193: The Problem with Mise en Place, with Justin Khanna
Mentioned by 
Shane Smith in the context of his optimistic outlook on the future, despite challenges posed by AI and environmental issues.
Shane Smith in the context of his optimistic outlook on the future, despite challenges posed by AI and environmental issues.
64 snips
The U.S. Media Is LYING To You—Here’s The Truth About Global Chaos | Shane Smith PT 2
Mentioned by Matt Ridley to explain the benefits of recombination and how multiple ideas combine to create innovation.
43 snips
Compounding Optimism
Mentioned by Peter Diamandis when discussing the concept of time saving and the reduction in time needed to acquire resources.
30 snips
EP #31 The Truth About Overpopulation w/ Dr. Marian L. Tupy & Dr. Gale L. Pooley
