The Drayton Discourse
The Drayton Discourse is an exciting podcast series brought to you by the Academic Events team of The Economist’s Society, here at University College London! Our episodes allow you to listen in to stimulating discussions with world-renowned economists. From ground-breaking ideas to revolutionary research, our guests share their thoughts, opinions and, most interestingly, personal stories which put together, teach us a good deal of economics and a great deal of life.
The Drayton Discourse
The Drayton Discourse: John Van Reneen on innovation, productivity, and government intervention
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The Economist's Society
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Season 2
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Episode 6
In this episode, economist Professor John Van Reenen shares his insights on an interesting array of topics including the future of ideas, how to influence sustainable long-term growth, and the balance of innovation and intervention. He highlights the importance of government policies to create the scientists of the future to tackle problems such as “The Lost Marie-Curie” effect and diminishing marginal returns to productivity.
Professor Van Reenen also gives his take on time travel and what innovation looks like 50 years down the road.
0:00 Introduction
3:12 Ideas and Innovation
12:01 Fall of Labour Share
20:56 Thought Experiment