16min chapter

Cautionary Tales with Tim Harford cover image

Cautionary Tales Presents: Death Fraud and Other Risky Business

Cautionary Tales with Tim Harford

CHAPTER

The Illusions of Risk and Reward

This chapter examines a failed attempt to fake one's own death, showcasing the pitfalls of short-term thinking versus long-term planning. It explores the psychology behind high-stakes risk-taking, particularly in finance and gambling, and reflects on historical figures like John Law who embody these themes. Concluding with a poetic meditation on the transient nature of wealth, the chapter reveals how even the most promising ventures can unravel under pressure.

00:00

Get the Snipd
podcast app

Unlock the knowledge in podcasts with the podcast player of the future.
App store bannerPlay store banner

AI-powered
podcast player

Listen to all your favourite podcasts with AI-powered features

Discover
highlights

Listen to the best highlights from the podcasts you love and dive into the full episode

Save any
moment

Hear something you like? Tap your headphones to save it with AI-generated key takeaways

Share
& Export

Send highlights to Twitter, WhatsApp or export them to Notion, Readwise & more

AI-powered
podcast player

Listen to all your favourite podcasts with AI-powered features

Discover
highlights

Listen to the best highlights from the podcasts you love and dive into the full episode