What makes something a commodity?
Global commerce is underpinned by these unsexy items, but how do they attain that status?
By H.T.
To mark the publication of "Go Figure", a collection of The Economist’s explainers and daily charts, the editors of this blog solicited ideas on Facebook and Twitter. This week we publish five explainers suggested by our readers, who will each receive a copy of the book.
How drones and video-game techniques are coming together in Ukraine’s war
The idea of the body count evolves
Why are India and Pakistan fighting over water?
After terror attacks India has suspended a water-sharing treaty
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