45. Question Time: BBC impartiality, books vs. newspapers, and Stewart spoofery

In 'Poor Economics,' Abhijit Banerjee and Esther Duflo present a detailed analysis of the lives of the poor, challenging common assumptions about poverty. They use evidence from numerous randomized control trials to explain why the poor make certain choices, such as borrowing to save or missing out on free immunizations. The book emphasizes the importance of understanding the daily decisions and constraints faced by the poor and argues that small, well-designed interventions can lead to significant improvements in their lives. It also highlights the role of behavioral economics and the need for policy changes based on empirical evidence rather than grand generalizations or ideologies.

John le Carre's "The Honourable Schoolboy" is a complex spy thriller set against the backdrop of 1970s Hong Kong. The novel follows the intricate operations of the British Secret Intelligence Service (SIS) as they navigate the political landscape of the Cold War. Le Carre masterfully weaves together themes of betrayal, deception, and moral ambiguity, exploring the human cost of espionage. The story delves into the lives of various characters, each with their own motivations and secrets, creating a suspenseful and thought-provoking narrative. The novel's detailed descriptions of Hong Kong and its portrayal of the waning days of the American presence in Vietnam add depth and historical context.