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From This Collection

Why are we hearing so much about AI all of a sudden?

Oct 13, 2023
Experts say that big companies often observe or invest in innovations years before they become widely known. 
Marco Bertorello/AFP via Getty Images

What are the origins of rebates? 

Oct 6, 2023
The term goes back centuries, and became a major source of controversy in the late 19th century.
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Should the U.S. be worried about deflation? 

Sep 29, 2023
As price gains cool down, we consider the risk that the trend will go too far. Plus, is consumer sentiment a trustworthy indicator of economic activity?
Price gains have been on the decline after a bout of decades-high inflation that started during the pandemic. It's a welcome change for consumers, but deflation is another threat to the economy.
Joe Raedle/Getty Images

If the Great Salt Lake dries up, what would that mean for the U.S. economy?

Sep 22, 2023
The demise of the landmark site would affect a range of industries as well as Utah residents’ health. It would strike an emotional blow as well.
A view of the Great Salt Lake in 2021. If water levels continue to decline at the current rate, the lake could be dry in five years, researchers found.
Justin Sullivan/Getty Images

I've always wondered: how mint flavoring became associated with clean teeth

Sep 8, 2023
Listener Grant Cohoe says he's "not a fan of mint" and asks: "Why it is that mint is so ubiquitous in toothpaste, mouthwash and the like?"
Mint flavored toothpaste at the store. 
Mitchell Hartman/Marketplace

For public good, not for profit.

Why do airlines set weird departure and arrival times?

Aug 25, 2023
Forget “the logic of the clock.” The airline is thinking about the airplane, not the customer, one expert told us.
Have an 8:02 a.m. flight to catch?
Drew Angerer/Getty Images

You may be losing out on retirement money if you leave your job early 

Aug 11, 2023
Some employers will match your contributions to your retirement fund, but you may have to stay with them for years to access that money.
Some employer matching contributions come with strings attached.
pinkomelet/Getty Images