The awarding of the 2019 Nobel Prize in Economics to Abhijit Banerjee, Esther Duflo and Michael Kremer hits close to home for several reasons. First, in bringing "an experimental approach to alleviating global poverty," as the Nobel committee said in its Oct. 14 announcement of the prize, these distinguished economists have changed the way we do research at the Research … [Read more...] about A Nobel Prize for Development: A Look From Inside the IDB
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When Anti-Crime Strategies Reflect Ignorance Rather than Knowledge
When it comes to crime, we are easily swayed by false perceptions and information. We lose our wallet to a pickpocket or hear about a mugging in our generally safe neighborhood and immediately assume that we are in the midst of a crime epidemic. We are pushed to anxiety by politicians who peddle exaggerated homicide statistics to prove they are tough on crime; by the … [Read more...] about When Anti-Crime Strategies Reflect Ignorance Rather than Knowledge
Preparing for Climate Change Migrants
In recent days, climate change has surged back into public consciousness with a disturbing report of rapid melting in the West Antarctic ice sheet. According to the report, the disintegration of the massive block of ice, larger than Mexico, could combine with other ice melts to raise sea levels by as much as six feet by the end of the century. That could eventually threaten … [Read more...] about Preparing for Climate Change Migrants
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?
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?