The Economist explains | The Economist explains economics

How people became the central focus of economics

Gary Becker's theory of human capital explained the role of education in the production process

|3 min read

By S.R.

This week “The Economist explains” is given over to economics. Today’s is the second in a series of six explainers on seminal ideas

Reuse this content
Ukrainian drone operator works to correct artillery fire in the city of Bahkmut.

How drones and video-game techniques are coming together in Ukraine’s war

The idea of the body count evolves

Blue sky, mountainous landscape in the background, with a rope bridge over the Indus River. A motocyclist is crossing the bridge.

Why are India and Pakistan fighting over water?

After terror attacks India has suspended a water-sharing treaty 

A destroyed Russian tank sits on a roadside near the town of Sudzha, Ukraine

How will mines dropped by drones change warfare?

They make attacks on tanks more precise and troops easier to trap

What do Greenlanders think of being bought?

Donald Trump’s desire for Greenland, and a shabby visit by his son, reignite the independence debate

What would Donald Trump gain from seizing the Panama Canal?

The president-elect claims the crossing is controlled by China and rips off American consumers

Where does Santa come from?

How a miracle-working Greek bishop, Dutch folk figure and early New York icon became the ubiquitous symbol of Christmas