For decades, analysis of political parties around the world focused on where they stood on the role of the state versus the markets in the economy; the need for high or low taxes; and the advantages or disadvantages of social-welfare spending. It focused, in other words, on the position of parties on the ideological spectrum of left to right. More recent analysis, however, … [Read more...] about Reform and the Power of Party Platforms
The Miracle of Parenting Programs?
For decades now, researchers have suspected that investments in early childhood development pay off richly. That is because providing the right intellectual and emotional stimulation to children in their first years could open a new future. It may not only lead to smarter, more prosperous and more socially-adapted adults. It could generate more equality and productivity in … [Read more...] about The Miracle of Parenting Programs?
Tracking the Decline of the Right
Mauricio Macri presented a face of change to world leaders in Davos last month, the first Argentine president to represent the South American country at the World Economic Forum in over a decade. Macri's efforts to normalize relations with international stakeholders reflect a new direction in policies and international relations that have taken hold since December 2015 when he … [Read more...] about Tracking the Decline of the Right
Seating Business and Government at the Table
Businesspeople seek as much as influence as possible over their government's productive development policies. From many points of view, this makes sense. Company executives experience firsthand the structural problems that prevent them from serving their clients better, accessing new markets and increasing productivity. They know where the information asymmetries lie. If they … [Read more...] about Seating Business and Government at the Table
Health Benefits from Social Media?
What does it say about someone that he frequently uses words like "idiot", "fake", or "bed" in his tweets? According to a recent paper and IDB seminar by Johannes Eichstaedt, his use of "idiot" signifies hostility or aggression; "fake", hate and interpersonal tension; and "bed," boredom and fatigue. Moreover, it means that he is more at risk for heart disease, a condition … [Read more...] about Health Benefits from Social Media?