Resilient, Right?

2min Snip

00:00

Play full episode

Summary

Transcript

Episode notes

Biological networks evolved to be resilient, right? A because whatever kind of redundancy that is useful to survive a little bit longer might be selected by natural selection. Whereas here, this has one global supply chain, and you can imagine their critical points where it could break down catastrophically. i think this whole system is in a place now where peoplear recognizing these vulnerabilities, like the tim cooks of the world have like woken up.

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.