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The article explores the decline of the concept of class in economics and its recent resurgence. The author discusses the historical perspectives of influential economists such as David Ricardo, Adam Smith, Karl Marx, Vilfredo Pareto, and Simon Kuznets, and their views on inequality and class divisions. The article also criticizes the mainstream economics of the Cold War era for neglecting the study of inequality and class. The author concludes by highlighting the importance of studying and understanding the wealth gap in contemporary society. [Extracted from the article]

The article discusses the role of slavery in the British economy and argues that its impact was far-reaching and incalculable. The authors, Maxine Berg and Pat Hudson, challenge the prevailing view that the slave trade had a minimal effect on Britain's wealth and industrialization. They argue that slavery was the foundation of a vast transatlantic trading network that stimulated economic growth and innovation in various industries. The article also highlights the need for a comprehensive understanding of slavery's impact and calls for a reckoning and reparations similar to those taking place in the United States. [Extracted from the article]

This article discusses the potential challenges that Keir Starmer, the leader of the Labour Party in the UK, may face if he becomes the next Prime Minister. The author identifies six areas where Starmer's government could encounter difficulties, including issues with young and diverse voters, the older demographic, employment rights, disillusioned idealists, declining party activists, and regional mayors. The article emphasizes the need for caution and careful navigation of these potential pitfalls in order to maintain a broad base of support and avoid setbacks. [Extracted from the article]

Jamie Driscoll, mayor for the North of Tyne region, is running for an expanded mayoralty in the northeast. Despite being a leftist fixer who works with local Tories, the Labour party blocked his candidacy. Driscoll's main focus is on sorting out transportation issues, such as improving bus services and integrating different modes of transportation. He is seen as a bridge-builder and technocrat, and his policies align with some of the pledges made by Labour leader Keir Starmer. However, rallying voters against the official Labour campaign may be challenging for Driscoll. [Extracted from the article]

Daron Acemoglu, an economist at MIT, has been voted the world's top thinker for 2024. Acemoglu challenges the idea that technological progress will automatically lead to shared prosperity, arguing that technology often impoverishes certain groups. He suggests that the state should actively steer innovation to prioritize labor-augmenting changes that create new tasks and skill needs, rather than labor-substituting automation. Acemoglu also emphasizes the importance of building the right institutions, such as unions and regulation, to spread the gains from economic growth. [Extracted from the article]

The 2024 Oscars featured Christopher Nolan's Oppenheimer winning Best Picture, despite its flaws as a biopic. The red carpet saw attendees making political statements through dress, with many wearing red pins in support of a ceasefire in Gaza. The Oscars also showcased the power of First Nations voices, with a historic performance by Osage musician Scott George. The event included impassioned acceptance speeches and mesmerizing performances, with Ryan Gosling's rendition of "I'm Just Ken" standing out. Overall, the Oscars provided a platform for diverse perspectives and celebrated technical and artistic accomplishments in cinema. [Extracted from the article]