From the farms of West Africa to the financial world of price graphs, futures contracts, and commodity ETFs, explore the fascinating journey of cocoa beans and the challenges faced by small farmers and farm workers. Discover how commodity traders make bets on cocoa prices and the impact of declining demand for chocolate on cocoa prices.

The story of William H. Bovee, the founder of California's first coffee mill, is a testament to the power of innovation and entrepreneurship. Bovee's vision and hard work led to the creation of the world's first large-scale coffee grinding and packaging operation. Learning about the history of innovation and entrepreneurship can inspire high school students to explore their own passions and ideas. Studying these concepts can also help students develop critical thinking skills and an entrepreneurial mindset that will benefit them in any career path they choose. Additionally, learning about the history of coffee and its impact on society can be fascinating and informative. Whether you're a coffee lover or not, the story of Bovee's success is a reminder that with hard work, innovation, and a little bit of luck, anyone can make a difference.

Explore the global spice trade and its evolution from the 16th century to present-day. Discover interesting facts such as the Dutch's penalty for stealing spices and McCormick's game-changing strategy. Learn about the health benefits of spices and how they've been used throughout history.

Sugar: A Bittersweet History is a fascinating exploration of a commodity that has shaped human history in ways we rarely consider. From its role in fueling the Industrial Revolution to its connection to modern-day fast food, this book offers a perceptive and provocative investigation of a substance that most of us consume every day. Impressively researched and commandingly written, this engaging book will leave you with a new understanding of the impact of sugar on our world. Recommended for anyone interested in the intersections of food, history, and society, Sugar: A Bittersweet History is a must-read. This book will be particularly relevant to students of history, sociology, and economics, as well as those interested in the politics of food and agriculture. It also has important implications for those concerned with issues of social justice, as it explores the brutal history of sugar production and its connection to slavery. For anyone looking to deepen their understanding of the world around them, Sugar: A Bittersweet History is an essential addition to your reading list.

Before fast food and TV dinners, there were oranges. Discover how two brothers turned a failed theater into a successful food stand, paving the way for the fast food industry. Learn about the challenges they faced during the Depression and their vision for the future of fast food.

Discover how food has been shaping the course of human history and evolution. From the invention of farming to the paradox of plenty, food has been at the forefront of human progress. From early agrarian societies to the use of spices, food has played a significant role in the formation of civilizations, international trade, and even wars.

Have you ever wondered why finance is often seen as deceitful and infamous? Harvard Business School professor Mihir Desai explores this question in his book, "The Wisdom of Finance." Desai uses literature, film, history, and philosophy to explain the inner workings of finance in a way that has never been seen before. This book offers a refreshing and unique perspective on one of the world's most complex and misunderstood professions. You'll be surprised to learn how principles of finance can provide answers to critical questions in our lives, from the lessons of mergers applying to marriages to bankruptcy teaching us how to react to failure. Recommended for students of finance, economics, business, and humanities, "The Wisdom of Finance" offers a new perspective on the principles of finance. This book is also relevant to those interested in risk management, fiduciary responsibility, and the true value of relationships. The mix of finance and humanities leads to unusual pairings, such as Jane Austen and Anthony Trollope being guides to risk management and Jeff Koons becoming an advocate of leverage. Mihir Desai's exploration of finance through literature, film, history, and philosophy will inspire readers to see finance in a new light and understand the core humanity of this profession.

Do you ever wonder why prices seem to go up every year? That's called inflation, and it's an important economic concept to understand. Inflation can impact everything from the cost of your groceries to the availability of jobs. While a little bit of inflation is healthy for the economy, too much can cause problems for households and businesses. As a high school student, learning about inflation can help you better understand how the economy works and how it affects your daily life. By understanding inflation, you can make better financial decisions, plan for your future, and even contribute to a healthy economy. Don't be afraid of the term "inflation" – it's a fundamental concept that you can learn and use to your advantage.

Discover how a bankrupt Venetian merchant's risky trade for pepper led to a gateway of riches, and how spices became the marquee good of medieval high society.

Did you know that ketchup, the ubiquitous American condiment, has roots in China and Southeast Asia? And that it's used in surprising ways around the world, including in ketchup cake? The current trade war has even put ketchup in the spotlight, revealing how countries use symbolic products to retaliate. Learn about the history and global impact of ketchup, and discover how cultural stereotypes are exposed during trade wars.

Did you know that over 1.7 million people benefit from Fairtrade certifications? Did you know that over 26% of the world's population depends on agriculture for their livelihoods? Unfortunately, small-scale farmers often face numerous challenges, such as low prices, climate change, and unfair trade practices, that hinder their ability to make a decent living. However, Fairtrade and other sustainability certifications can make a significant difference by ensuring that farmers receive fair prices, access to markets, and support to improve their social, economic, and environmental conditions. Fairtrade is a certification that requires companies to pay a fair price for products, support sustainable practices, and provide social and environmental benefits to farmers and workers. For instance, fairtrade coffee farmers in Colombia have used the premiums they receive to build schools, clinics, and clean water systems. Fairtrade also ensures that workers have safe and fair working conditions and bans child labour and discrimination. Other sustainability certifications, such as Rainforest Alliance, UTZ, and Organic, also promote sustainable farming practices, such as conserving biodiversity, reducing chemical use, and minimizing waste. These certifications also provide traceability and transparency to help consumers make informed choices and support ethical and sustainable production. Leading academics in the field, such as Dr. Ndongo Sylla, have argued that Fairtrade can empower farmers and strengthen their bargaining power in the global market. Other researchers, such as Dr. Sarah Lyon, have highlighted the challenges and limitations of Fairtrade and suggested that it may not be a cure-all for all problems faced by small-scale farmers. By exploring Fairtrade and other sustainability certifications, you can learn about how individuals and organizations can promote social and environmental justice and create a more sustainable and equitable world.

Coffee is a daily ritual for millions, but did you know that it can also serve as a model for sustainability? Enter the circular economy, a concept that has been gaining traction in recent years as a solution to the linear "take-make-dispose" approach to resource use. In a circular economy, resources are kept in use for as long as possible, creating a closed-loop system that minimizes waste and maximizes value. So, how does this apply to coffee? Let's start with the production process. Coffee is grown in over 60 countries, mostly in the Global South, and is often farmed in ways that are harmful to the environment and the people who cultivate it. However, some coffee companies are embracing the circular economy by adopting regenerative agriculture practices, which involve building soil health, conserving water, and promoting biodiversity. This approach not only benefits the planet but also improves the quality of the coffee itself. But the circular economy goes beyond just sustainable farming practices. Coffee waste, such as used grounds and pulp, can be repurposed into many things from fertilizer to furniture. And when it comes to packaging, some companies are experimenting with innovative solutions, such as reusable cups and biodegradable materials. Academic experts are at the forefront of this movement, with scholars like Walter Stahel and Ellen MacArthur advocating for a more circular approach to resource usage. Stahel, a Swiss economist, is widely credited with coining the term "circular economy" and has written extensively on the topic. MacArthur, a former professional sailor, founded the Ellen MacArthur Foundation, a non-profit dedicated to accelerating the transition to a circular economy. Remember, the circular economy is not just about coffee - it's a framework that can be applied to any industry or resource. By exploring this topic, you'll gain a deeper understanding of how we can create a more sustainable and equitable world.

The Great Depression was a significant global economic crisis that lasted from 1929 to the late 1930s, leading to severe consequences for people worldwide. From the US stock market collapse to failed banks, bankruptcy, and the rise of Hitler's Nazi Party, this period marked a significant turning point in world history. Learning about this critical historical event can provide you with a comprehensive understanding of the economic concepts that govern our lives today. Through exploring the Great Depression, you can develop critical thinking, analytical skills, and a sense of how economic policies shape our world. By understanding the past, we can learn to make better decisions in the future.

Have you ever wondered about the history of your favorite fast food? Fish and chips have been a staple in the UK for over 150 years, with 80% of the population visiting a fish and chip shop at least once a year. This combination of fried fish and chips has a fascinating history, from the separate origins of fried fish and chips to their combination in the streets of London. The popularity of fish and chips only grew with the help of trawl fishing and the railway boom of the 1870s, leading to the opening of thousands of fish and chip shops across the UK. Learning about the history of this beloved dish not only satisfies your curiosity but also teaches you about the cultural and economic factors that contributed to its success. So, next time you enjoy a crispy and fluffy fish and chips, remember the fascinating history behind it.

Information overload is a growing concern in today's world, where technology has made it easier for businesses to access vast amounts of data. However, this has led to the paradox of too much information and too little time, leading to individuals and organizations struggling to make informed decisions. The impact of information overload on decision making has become a major topic of discussion among leading academics, such as Daniel Kahneman and Richard Thaler, who have explored the role of heuristics and biases in decision making. Studies have shown that individuals who have access to more information tend to experience increased anxiety and stress, leading to poor decision making and decision avoidance. Businesses have taken advantage of this by presenting their customers with an overwhelming amount of information to make their decision more difficult, often leading to impulsive purchases. This practice, known as 'nudge theory', was popularized by Thaler and Cass Sunstein, who argued that by presenting individuals with a small change to the environment, they can be influenced to make a different decision. An example of how businesses use information overload to their advantage is the use of advertisements on social media. Advertisers use algorithms to determine which advertisements to show to each user, often leading to an endless scroll of irrelevant or unwanted advertisements. This leads to individuals feeling overwhelmed and bombarded, often leading to impulsive purchases, simply to make the advertisements stop. To prevent falling victim to information overload and poor decision making, it is important to practice critical thinking and to seek out reliable sources of information. This can be done by asking questions, seeking out multiple perspectives, and by taking the time to reflect on one's own thoughts and feelings. In conclusion, by understanding how businesses use information overload to their advantage, we can make more informed decisions and take control of our own lives.

Money can buy happiness, but only up to a certain point. Research shows that once we have enough to cover our basic needs and a comfortable lifestyle, more money doesn't necessarily bring more happiness. So how much money do you really need to be happy? According to a study by Princeton University, the magic number is around $75,000 a year. Beyond this point, the increase in income doesn't lead to a significant increase in happiness. This is because we tend to adapt to our new income level and start taking it for granted. However, it's not just about the amount of money we make, but also how we spend it. Research by psychologist Elizabeth Dunn shows that spending money on experiences, like travel or concerts, brings more happiness than buying material possessions. This is because experiences create memories and social connections that last longer than the pleasure of owning something. Moreover, Dunn's research also reveals that spending money on others, through acts of kindness or charitable donations, can boost our own happiness. This is because it gives us a sense of purpose and social connectedness. But why do we care so much about money and happiness? One explanation is the concept of hedonic adaptation, which suggests that we have a natural tendency to seek out pleasure and avoid pain, but eventually adapt to our new level of pleasure and crave more. Therefore, our pursuit of happiness through material wealth is a never-ending cycle. Academics such as Richard Easterlin and Daniel Kahneman have made significant contributions to this field of research. Easterlin's Easterlin Paradox suggests that economic growth doesn't necessarily lead to increased happiness, while Kahneman's theory of peak-end rule suggests that our memories of experiences are influenced by the peak moment and the ending.

The rise of the sharing economy has revolutionized the way we live, work and play. From car sharing and home sharing to peer-to-peer lending and crowdfunding, the power of peer-to-peer exchange has disrupted traditional industries, challenged existing regulations, and transformed our understanding of ownership, trust, and community. But what exactly is peer-to-peer economy, and what are the opportunities and challenges it presents for students interested in exploring this cutting-edge academic topic? Peer-to-peer economy refers to a decentralized and networked system of exchange that allows individuals to share, borrow, rent, or sell goods and services directly with each other, often facilitated by online platforms and apps. The key features of peer-to-peer economy are its peer-to-peer nature, its disintermediation of middlemen, its emphasis on trust and reputation, and its potential for collaborative consumption, innovation, and empowerment. The opportunities of peer-to-peer economy are manifold. For example, it can democratize access to resources, reduce waste and carbon footprint, promote social cohesion and inclusivity, and foster entrepreneurship and creativity. According to a report by PwC, the global sharing economy is projected to grow from $15 billion in 2013 to $335 billion in 2025, with sectors such as transportation, accommodation, and finance leading the way. However, the challenges of peer-to-peer economy should not be overlooked. These include issues of regulation, taxation, liability, safety, privacy, and labor rights, as well as the potential for digital divides, fraud, discrimination, and exploitation. Moreover, the impact of peer-to-peer economy on social norms, cultural values, and the common good is still under debate and scrutiny. In conclusion, the peer-to-peer economy is a fascinating and dynamic topic that offers students a wealth of opportunities and challenges to explore. By reading, reflecting, writing, and engaging in self-directed projects, students can gain a deeper understanding of this transformative phenomenon and its implications for the future of work, consumption, and society. So why not take the leap and start your journey of discovery today? The peer-to-peer economy is waiting for you!

The topics of securitisation and the global financial crisis are not just about numbers, facts, and statistics, but also about human failure, greed, and risk. It's a tale of how a small spark in the world of finance led to a massive explosion that shook the global economy to its core. Let's start with the basics. Securitisation is the process of pooling together various financial assets and then selling securities backed by those assets to investors. The idea behind securitisation was to spread the risk of default among many different investors and make the financial system more stable. However, the reality was far from what was promised. The global financial crisis of 2008 was triggered by the collapse of the housing market, which had been the backbone of the securitisation industry. The crisis was caused by the failure of the rating agencies, who were supposed to assess the risk associated with securities, but instead, gave high ratings to securities backed by risky loans. Ever heard of the term NINJA loans? No Income, No Job, No Assets - these were the types of loans that were being securitised and sold to investors. The financial industry was full of these loans, and the ratings agencies were happy to give high ratings to these securities, leading to the financial crisis. Leading academics such as Raghuram Rajan and Joseph Stiglitz have made significant contributions to the field of securitisation and the global financial crisis. Rajan highlighted the dangers of the financial system's reliance on securitisation, while Stiglitz criticised the rating agencies for their role in the crisis. We hope this write-up has inspired you to dive deeper into the world of securitisation and the global financial crisis. It's a fascinating topic with real-life examples and lessons to be learned. So, grab a book, turn on a documentary, or start a project, and let your imagination take you on a journey to a world of risk, failure, and exploration.

Have you ever wondered what the most important invention in history is? You might think it's something like the Internet or smartphones, but what if we told you that farming is actually the seed of civilization? Without early man's discovery of using seeds to grow grain, we wouldn't have much of anything we have today. Farming yielded plenty of food, with enough to store, trade, and eat. Therefore, not everyone needed to be farmers. This allowed other people, non-farmers, to do other things such as make tools, craft pottery, and build homes. Farming and food surpluses led to the division of labor, which allowed for innovative ways of doing things, producing new products, or making advancements in technology. The sharing of ideas and technology led to the growth of things we readily use today, like the Internet. By learning about these key academic concepts, you can gain a better understanding of the evolution of society and the impact that innovation and invention have had on our lives today.

The economics of biodiversity review urges the inclusion of nature in accounting systems and decision-making. It highlights humanity's mismanagement of our most precious asset and the need to rebalance our demands with nature's capacity. The review argues that GDP is no longer fit for purpose and calls for the reconstruction of economics to include nature. The pandemic is a warning of what can happen if we continue to encroach on natural habitats. Urgent and transformative action is needed to ensure our demands on nature do not exceed its sustainable supply.