The Political Orphanage cover image

How Innovation Works - Featuring: Matt Ridley

The Political Orphanage

00:00

Nitrogen: The Unsung Hero of Warfare and Agriculture

This chapter explores the historical importance of substances like bat guano and urine in relation to warfare, trade, and agriculture, revealing the unusual practices that emerged from the quest for nitrogen sources. It also examines the complex legacy of a key figure in nitrogen extraction, discussing both the advancements in food production and the moral ambiguities associated with chemical innovations.

Transcript
Play full episode

The AI-powered Podcast Player

Save insights by tapping your headphones, chat with episodes, discover the best highlights - and more!
App store bannerPlay store banner
Get the app