Economics Archives

Cold War Technology: The Power of the Semiconductor

What Cold War technology emerged in the 1940s and 1950s? How did military investment influence the development of electronics? Cold War technology centered on semiconductors and computer chips used for intelligence, guiding weaponry, and more. By understanding how the military influenced technological research and development, you can develop a better grasp of economic history. Read on to learn more about how semiconductors developed through the Cold War.

Chip War: Miller’s History of the Semiconductor, Explained

What can we learn from Chris Miller’s Chip War? What is there to know about the economic history of the semiconductor? In Chip War, Miller describes the growth of the semiconductor industry from invention to globalized mass production. He walks through each step of the semiconductor’s technological development, highlighting key international competitors in the industry. Read on for insights and explanations drawn from Chris Miller’s Chip War.

What Is Moore’s Law? Predicting the Evolution of Electronics

What is Moore’s law? Can we still use Moore’s law today? Moore’s law states that the number of transistors that can fit on a microchip will double every two years and that the cost of each transistor will decrease. Since it was first predicted in 1965, this has been roughly accurate; however, understanding whether we can use Moore’s law today requires a more thorough look. Read on to learn more about what Moore’s law is and whether it still makes sense today.

The Benefits and Downsides of Starting a Side Hustle

Why are so many Americans starting side hustles? What are the pros and cons of having a side hustle? Nearly 40% of Americans rely on side hustles to supplement their incomes as inflation has outstripped wages. While extra earnings provide a financial cushion, side hustles can negatively impact work-life balance and health. Continue reading for more insights into the downsides and benefits of a side hustle.

The Japanese Semiconductor Industry: An Economic Miracle

How did the Japanese semiconductor industry get such a foothold internationally? When was it at its strongest? The Japanese semiconductor industry started with entrepreneurs like Akio Morita, founder of Sony, who saw the potential of semiconductors in consumer electronics. Understanding how this industry developed gives you a better sense of where the Japanese semiconductor industry is today. Read on to learn about how Japan’s economy has fluctuated with the development of semiconductors and electronics.

Oppression Rebranded: Marxism in Today’s Society

What’s cultural Marxism? How is it different from traditional Marxism? Is it an actual threat to society? Douglas Murray believes that a new ideology of wokeism, intersectionality, and identity politics has gained a foothold in mainstream society and that it’s causing great harm. One of the culprits he points to is the influence of leftist academic ideas such as Marxism. Keep reading to learn Murray’s perspective on Marxism in today’s society.

Is There Still a Recession Coming, or Did We Avoid It?

Is there still a recession coming? Did the US manage to avoid the impending doom? Experts are still divided on whether the United States will face a recession, with signs pointing in both directions. Some say that interest rate hikes, oil price increases, and dwindling savings signal a possible recession. Others counter that there’s optimism for continued growth. Continue reading to learn more about the two perspectives.

The TSMC Business Model: Economies of Scale in Production

What do we know about the TSMC business model? How does TSMC make the most of economies of scale in production? The TSMC business model is also called the foundry model, and it centers around optimizing the company for manufacturing while outsourcing design. Understanding the benefits of their model tells us a lot about the advantages of economies of scale and specialization. Read on to discover what makes TSMC’s business model innovative and successful.

The US-China Rivalry: A Battle for Technology

What is the US-China rivalry about? How do the US and China compete with each other? The US-China rivalry is driven by many economic factors, and the development of semiconductor chip technology has been at the center of the conflict. Understanding the basis for this competition offers great insight into the world economy and the evolution of technology. Learn more about the rivalry between the US and China through the lens of technological development and economic history.

A History of the Semiconductor Industry in China

When did the semiconductor industry in China take off? How has the industry developed over time? The semiconductor industry in China started with a heavy emphasis on production, and it grew to include design and engineering as well. Understanding the underpinnings of the Chinese semiconductor industry grants insight into the position of China in the international economy. Learn what makes China’s semiconductor industry successful and how it has grown over time.