IEA Podcast Institute of Economic Affairs

Join Matthew Lesh, Public Policy & Communications Director at the IEA, and Dr. Kristian Niemietz, Editorial Director at IEA, in a compelling dialogue as they tackle the contentious query: Did empire make Britain rich?
In this week's episode of the IEA Podcast, Dr. Niemietz draws from his latest book, "Imperial Measurement: A Cost-Benefit Analysis of Western Colonialism," to offer a critical examination of colonialism and slavery's economic impact on Britain's prosperity. From Adam Smith's historical critiques to contemporary discussions fueled by movements like Black Lives Matter, the conversation navigates the economic arguments surrounding colonialism. Dr. Niemietz dissects the traditional narrative of empire's economic benefits, analyzing the costs of empire maintenance, colony profitability, and the enduring effects on colonized nations. Through meticulous analysis and historical context, the podcast illuminates the intricacies of Britain's colonial legacy and its relevance in understanding modern economics.




 



 












 
 

In our latest In Conversation event, we had the pleasure of hosting Dominic Frisby, a multifaceted finance commentator, comedian, and author. Frisby delved into topics ranging from libertarianism and finance to the impact of Bitcoin and the future of tax, offering insightful perspectives. Joined by IEA's Executive Director, Tom Clougherty, Frisby shared valuable insights drawn from his extensive experience. Explore how decentralised technologies and cryptocurrencies are transforming economic paradigms, and gain insights into the potential effects of digital nomadism on government tax revenue.

Join Adrian Chiles and Christopher Snowdon on The Swift Half with Snowdon as they delve into the complexities of alcohol consumption and societal norms. From Chiles' insights from his documentary "Drinkers Like Me" to discussions on drinking guidelines and labelling, the conversation offers thought-provoking perspectives on moderation and personal choices. With expertise in lifestyle economics and broadcasting experience, Snowdon and Chiles navigate through the layers of drinking culture, challenging perceptions and exploring the intersection of policy, lifestyle, and personal freedom. Tune in for an engaging discussion that goes beyond the surface, shedding light on the nuances of alcohol dependence and social drinking.

Join Harrison Griffiths, IEA Communications Officer, and Bryan Cheang from the Centre for the Study of Governance and Society at King's College London in a deep dive into Singapore's economic transformation since 1965. Bryan provides valuable insights into the blend of pro-market policies and interventionist measures that have propelled Singapore from poverty to prosperity, emphasizing personal responsibility and investment in human capital. Discover the lessons other nations can draw from Singapore's experience and gain practical insights for navigating today's economic landscape with maturity and foresight. Dive into The Realities of Socialism, a multimedia project aimed at educating about socialism's global impact throughout the 20th century.

Join us for this week's podcast as we delve into how Britain can foster a more entrepreneurial environment. Head of Research at The Entrepreneurs Network, Eamonn Ives, and Public Policy & Communications Director Matthew Lesh discuss pressing issues surrounding taxation, innovation, and labor dynamics. From proposing reforms to simplify the tax system to exploring the role of innovation in entrepreneurship, our guests tackle key questions about Britain's economic future. They also examine the regulatory landscape and share insights on supporting startups in sectors like health tech and AI. Tune in to gain valuable perspectives on navigating the complexities of today's economic landscape and subscribe for future episodes.

Explore the Roman Empire's dynamics during the Antonine Plague with Colin Elliott, Associate Professor at Indiana University and author of "Pax Romana." Elliott offers profound insights into the pandemic's impact on the economy, military, and society, challenging conventional views on Roman cities' roles. He navigates complexities, highlighting economic interconnections and societal resilience, providing invaluable perspectives on this pivotal period in history.