ChinaTalk Global Standards: What's the Deal?
Apr 25, 2022
Join MIT professor JoAnne Yates and Wellesley political science expert Craig Murphy as they explore the power of global standards. Discover how standardized shipping containers fueled China's growth and why Tim Berners-Lee is hailed as a benevolent overlord. They debate the influence of Europe versus China in setting these standards and unravel the fascinating history of international cooperation that has shaped modern economies. Plus, hear about the importance of inclusivity in technological standardization, especially for women in engineering.
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Steam Boiler Safety Standards
- Steamboat boiler explosions prompted engineers at the Franklin Institute to develop safety standards.
- Similarly, the first standard set by the German standards body addressed steam boiler safety.
WWII Interoperability Issues
- Allies faced interoperability issues in WWII due to varying national standards for equipment.
- This highlighted the cost of non-standardization, prompting post-war efforts.
ISO's International Focus
- The ISO aimed to be truly international, including even colonies like India and Palestine.
- This forward-thinking approach reflected a broader post-war emphasis on global cooperation.
