Welcome to your weekly dose of insights from Marginal Revolution! This week, we've seen a diverse range of topics covered, from book recommendations to thought-provoking questions and intriguing research.
Literary Explorations
First up, we have a look at what the minds at Marginal Revolution have been reading. Alain Mabanckou's "Dealing with the Dead," a cemetery memoir hailing from the Congo, seems to have made a significant impact. "Most African fiction does not connect with me," the author notes, "and there is a tendency for the reviews to be untrustworthy. This 'cemetery memoir'... connected with me and held my interest throughout." This stands in contrast to the author's typical experience with the genre.
The reading list also includes Philip Zaleski and Carol Zaleski's "The Fellowship: The Literary Lives of the Inklings," hinting at a deep dive into the world of J.R.R. Tolkien and his literary circle.
Assorted Links and Intriguing Finds
As always, the "Wednesday assorted links" post provides a curated collection of interesting articles and resources. This week's list includes discussions on feudalism, the winding down of Technicolor, and a profile of Aella in the Atlantic. There's also a tribute to Ed Leamer, information on the budget package passed by the House, and an analysis linking outmigration to support for the AfD in Germany.
It's a true potpourri of information, perfect for those looking to broaden their horizons and delve into a variety of subjects.
The Method to the Madness?
Ever wondered about the impact of anger on performance? A fascinating study highlighted this week explores this very question, using the US version of the cooking competition MasterChef as its testing ground. By analyzing instances of judges expressing anger towards contestants, the study aims to uncover the link between exposure to anger and subsequent performance.
This innovative approach offers a unique perspective on a topic with broad implications, from the workplace to competitive environments.
A Question of Visibility
Finally, this week also saw the posing of a captivating trivia question: "Across all of history, which human being has been seen, in-person, by the greatest number of people?" While figures like Mick Jagger and baseball legend Cal Ripken are considered, the top contender appears to be Pope John Paul II.
It's a question that sparks curiosity and invites us to consider the impact and reach of various historical figures.
That's all for this week's roundup. Be sure to check back next week for more thought-provoking content from Marginal Revolution!