Keith Houston

Keith Houston, author of Empire of the Sum, dives into the quirky history of calculators, exploring how these essential tools have transformed over time. From ancient counting methods to the emotional backstory of the Curta calculator, his anecdotes reveal the human connection to numbers. The episode highlights a unique post-war contest in Tokyo, the surprising skills of the abacus, and the technological leap brought by the Casio brothers. Houston celebrates the calculator's journey, emphasizing its profound impact on technology and culture.

Join Tom Wainwright, Technology and Media Editor at The Economist, as he dives into Amazon's high-stakes streaming strategy and the mixed reviews it garners. Duncan Weldon, Britain’s Economics Correspondent, reveals that nearly 2% of GDP was overlooked in British data, offering hope for the economy's recovery. Keith Houston, author of 'Empire of the Sum', takes us on a nostalgic journey through the history of pocket calculators, showcasing their pivotal role in ushering in the digital age.

Tom Wainwright, technology and media editor at The Economist, breaks down Amazon's audacious streaming strategy amidst lukewarm critical reception. Duncan Weldon, Britain’s economics correspondent, reveals newly uncovered data suggesting a rosier UK GDP than previously thought. Meanwhile, author Keith Houston delves into the fascinating history of the pocket calculator, tracing its journey from humble beginnings to its role in shaping digital computation. This lively discussion spans innovation, economic insights, and the nostalgia of technology.

Keith Houston, author of Empire of the Sum: The Rise and Reign of the Pocket Calculator, discusses the evolution of calculators from the Arithmometer to pocket-sized devices in the 1970s and 1980s. It explores the competition between an abacus and an electromechanical calculator, the popularity of calculator watches, and the continued use of calculators in a digital age.

Discover the intriguing history of punctuation marks, from their creation by librarian Aristophanes to the introduction of lesser-known symbols like pilcrows, octothorps, and interrobangs. Explore the evolution of writing practices, the origin of the interrobang symbol, ancient counting systems, and the transformative impact of books on human nature.