{"version":1,"type":"rich","provider_name":"Libsyn","provider_url":"https:\/\/www.libsyn.com","height":90,"width":600,"title":"The Fire That Hasn't Gone Out","description":"Why did the Industrial Revolution ignite an era of sustained economic growth when the great civilizations of the past had repeatedly risen, flourished, and declined? The answer may have less to do with coal and steam engines than with a revolution in how human beings create, share, and apply knowledge. In this episode of Context, Brad Harris explores the groundbreaking work of economic historian Joel Mokyr, winner of the 2025 Nobel Prize in Economics, and his explanation for one of history's greatest mysteries: why modern technological progress became self-sustaining. From Francis Bacon and the Scientific Revolution to Europe's Republic of Letters, James Watt's steam engine, and the birth of modern industry, we trace the emergence of a powerful feedback loop between scientific discovery and practical invention that transformed human civilization. But progress is not inevitable. What happens when the cultural habits and institutions that sustain innovation begin to erode? And can artificial intelligence help keep the engine of human progress running? A story about the Industrial Revolution, the history of science, economic growth, and the fragile foundations of modern prosperity. Support Context and access exclusive bonus episodes: https:\/\/patreon.com\/bradcoleharris ","author_name":"Context with Brad Harris","author_url":"https:\/\/www.patreon.com\/bradcoleharris","html":"