In the episode “Does the past explain Portugal?”, we step back in time to understand the deep roots of productivity asymmetries across nations. In conversation with historian André Canhoto Costa, we explore how a country’s prosperity does not rely solely on immediate metrics or technological tools, but rather on the strength of its institutions, the efficiency of the tax system, and the ability to establish rules of the game that encourage cooperation and social trust.
Throughout the episode, we analyze the historical weight of capital scarcity and the fear of risk that continue to hold back innovation in Portugal, highlighting the importance of scientific culture and deep, thoughtful knowledge to avoid becoming hostage to the short-termism of the digital age.
