Cautionary Tales with Tim Harford DOUBLE BILL: A Monkey For Mayor / A Screw Loose At 17,000 Feet
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Oct 13, 2023 Discover the amusing story of a monkey who unexpectedly became a successful mayor, raising questions about leadership and our selection process. Then, delve into the high-stakes world of aviation with a gripping tale of how a tiny mistake involving a bolt led to a near disaster at 17,000 feet. The podcast offers a mix of humor and caution, highlighting both the absurdities and risks inherent in decision-making and engineering. Tune in for intriguing insights into what makes an effective leader and the importance of precision in critical situations!
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Hartlepool's Monkey Legend
- The people of Hartlepool supposedly mistook a shipwrecked monkey for a French spy during the Napoleonic Wars and hanged it.
- This legend, whether true or not, became a source of mockery and later, embraced civic identity.
H'Angus for Mayor
- Hartlepool United's mascot, H'Angus the Monkey, ran for mayor as a publicity stunt.
- He unexpectedly won against the Labour Party candidate, shocking everyone.
Drummond's Unexpected Success
- Stuart Drummond, the man behind H'Angus, had no political experience but took on the role.
- Despite initial criticism from MP Peter Mandelson, Drummond proved surprisingly competent.
