This was a truly encouraging read. Too often, economic history is framed in overly simplistic, linear terms—where factor X (be it technology, capital accumulation, or Enlightenment ideals) leads neatly to outcome Y, typically the Industrial Revolution or the rise of Europe. But as your essay powerfully illustrates, the reality is far more complex. The emergence of modern economies was driven by intricate interactions and reinforcing feedback loops among many factors.
As someone who has long believed in this dynamic, nonlinear perspective, I’ve hesitated to articulate it publicly—especially on Substack. I did explore a related idea back on Medium, focusing on how expanding market size could create a feedback loop of growth (https://medium.com/@exchangism/history-de12d6a41fc4 – long post, but the key points are at the end). Your post has given me the push I needed to write more openly about this on Substack as well. Thanks for the inspiration.
Great article David! Maybe I have to read this many times 😅
Thanks! Although I hope that doesn't mean you found it unclear.
Jaja the article was very clear. I need to read it again because English is not my first language 😅
This was a truly encouraging read. Too often, economic history is framed in overly simplistic, linear terms—where factor X (be it technology, capital accumulation, or Enlightenment ideals) leads neatly to outcome Y, typically the Industrial Revolution or the rise of Europe. But as your essay powerfully illustrates, the reality is far more complex. The emergence of modern economies was driven by intricate interactions and reinforcing feedback loops among many factors.
As someone who has long believed in this dynamic, nonlinear perspective, I’ve hesitated to articulate it publicly—especially on Substack. I did explore a related idea back on Medium, focusing on how expanding market size could create a feedback loop of growth (https://medium.com/@exchangism/history-de12d6a41fc4 – long post, but the key points are at the end). Your post has given me the push I needed to write more openly about this on Substack as well. Thanks for the inspiration.