The Magic of Containers

2min Snip

00:00

Play full episode

Summary

Transcript

Episode notes

The magic of the container is that it gets loaded in vnom or wherever, and then it might not be opened or unloaded until it arrives at some factory. Some one knows what's inside, but the people who load it don't need to know. The only wrinkle i would add is that a lot of those containers, unless they're travelling on a train, will actually be unloaded not that far from the port. And all the contents will be put into the back of a semi trailer.

As the holidays approach, we are being reminded of the fragility of the global supply chain. But at the same time, the supply chain itself is a truly impressive and fascinating structure, made as it is from multiple components that must work together in synchrony. From building an item in a factory and shipping it worldwide to transporting it locally, processing it in a distribution center, and finally delivering it to an address, the system is simultaneously awe-inspiring and deeply dehumanizing. I talk with Christopher Mims about how things are made, how they get to us, and what it all means for the present and future of our work and our lives.

Support Mindscape on Patreon.

Christopher Mims received a bachelor’s degree in neuroscience and behavioral biology from Emory University. He is currently a technology columnist at The Wall Street Journal. He has previously written for publications such as Wired, Scientific American, The Atlantic, and Smithsonian. His new book is Arriving Today: From Factory to Front Door — Why Everything Has Changed About How and What We Buy.

See Privacy Policy at https://art19.com/privacy and California Privacy Notice at https://art19.com/privacy#do-not-sell-my-info.