What determines a birth rate? – Or: The Russian population problem

At a press conference last November, as Vladimir Putin was massing troops along the border with Ukraine, he was asked what keeps him up at night. Putin answered that one of the main problems Russia faces today was its population decline and its threat to the country's economy. He added: "From a humanitarian point of view … Continue reading What determines a birth rate? – Or: The Russian population problem

The scapegoat problem: What’s missing in the gasoline price debate

Every time the prices at the gas stations are way up, there is (at least here in Germany) the same discussion.  That discussion goes along with the following question: Are the oil companies taking advantage of their customers, charging extra high prices to maximise their profits? The correct answer to this question is probably: Of … Continue reading The scapegoat problem: What’s missing in the gasoline price debate