In How Progress Ends, Carl Benedikt Frey challenges the notion that technological and economic progress is inevitable, revealing that stagnation has been the norm throughout history. By examining a millennium of global events, Frey explores how technological advancements have both propelled and destabilized civilizations, from the steam engine to AI. He delves into why past leaders like Song China and Victorian Britain lost their innovative edge, and why modern economies like Japan and the Soviet Union experienced cycles of growth and decline. Frey argues that balancing decentralization with bureaucracy is essential for sustained innovation, offering insights that are crucial for today’s major economies.

Why You Should Read?

• Offers a compelling historical perspective on the cyclical nature of progress and stagnation.
• Provides insights into how technological shifts impact civilizations and economies.
• Highlights the importance of balancing decentralization and bureaucracy for long-term innovation.
• Engages readers with a rich narrative that combines history, economics, and technology.