BBC World Service invites suggestions for the ’51st Thing’ that made the modern economy
Following the success of the radio series, podcasts and book, 50 Things That Made The Modern Economy, the BBC World Service is now on the hunt for a ‘51st Thing’ for presenter Tim Harford to explore in two special podcasts.
Published: 19 August 2017
I want to hear what ideas and innovations people around the world think should be added to the list of things that have made the modern economy.
Launched in November 2016, each episode of 50 Things That Made The Modern Economy sees economist and author Tim Harford tell the story of how a particular invention or idea has shaped our world - and what it teaches us about how the modern economy works. As the series nears the end of its 50-episode run in October, listeners are now invited to send in their suggestions for other inventions that have helped create the economic world we live in - ideally in subtle or surprising ways.
Tim Harford says: “I’ve tried to paint a picture of economic change by telling the stories of the ideas, people, and tools that had far-reaching and unexpected consequences for all of us - from the plough to artificial intelligence, from Gillette’s disposable razor to Ikea’s Billy bookcase. I’m fascinated by unexpected consequences - for example, the impact of the fridge on global politics, or of the gramophone on income inequality. Now I want to hear what ideas and innovations people around the world think should be added to the list of things that have made the modern economy.”
Suggestions for the 51st Thing can be sent to 51things@bbc.com or by messaging us on the BBC World Service Facebook page or via Twitter @BBCWorldService from 19 August until 12 noon GMT on 8 September 2017. Tim Harford will chose six ideas from the submissions, and these will be announced on the podcast on 16 September.
The public is then invited to vote online for their favourite of the six shortlisted entries at bbcworldservice.com/51things and voting will close at 12 noon GMT on Friday 6th October 2017. The six shortlisted ideas will be explored in a podcast on 21 October, and the winning 51st Thing will then be announced in a special final podcast on 28 October. To find out about the 50 Things That Made the Modern Economy that have already featured, they are available as podcasts and online here
For more information on 51st Thing, go to www.bbcworldservice.com/51things from 19 August. Terms and conditions for the public vote will appear on that page from 16 September.
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