Whether you realize it or not, economics is part of your everyday life. It’s in the choices you make about work, hobbies, what you buy, and how you save.

Economics has a huge impact on the world we live in. And today, the world is tasked with creating a sustainable economy that lifts people out of poverty and reduces inequality, while at the same time not exhausting the planet’s natural resources and exacerbating climate change and ecological collapse. How can we work together to build a stronger and more sustainable economy?

An important first step is understanding the key factors at play in these massive, interconnected systems. Learning about the systems we live in and contribute to can give us insights into how to make them better, stabler, and more equitable.

So, where can you begin? We’ve partnered with the World Economic Forum to create a new 8-video series, covering a wide-range of topics to help you better understand the world’s economic past and present, so we can create a viable future for generations to come.

The series digs into questions like: what’s the best country to live in? Is infinite economic growth possible on a planet with finite resources? What does it take to be a successful freelance worker? Is inequality inevitable? How do we fix capitalism? And more.

Along with this new series, ted.cotfw.tk/worldecon will host an array of educational videos and supplementary learning materials to help educators, students, and those curious about economics learn everything they need to know about the subject.

Watch the first three videos in the series here: 

What’s the best country to live in?

What’s the best country to live in? Is it the one with the best food? The longest life expectancy? The best weather? For the past 70 years, most governments have relied heavily on a single number: the Gross Domestic Product, or GDP. But it was never intended for its current purpose; and some argue that we are addicted to making it grow. Explore the different ways countries measure quality of life.

Can the economy grow forever?

Many economists think that an eternally growing economy is necessary to keep improving people’s lives, and that if the global economy stops growing, people would fight more over the fixed amount of value that exists, rather than working to generate new value. Which raises the question: is infinite growth possible on a finite planet? Explore how economies can balance efficiency with sustainability.

Do you have what it takes to freelance?

A 2016 survey of freelancers in six countries found that those who freelance by choice– 70% of respondents– were happier than people in traditional jobs, specifically when it came to things like independence and flexibility in terms of where and when they work. So what does it take to be a successful freelancer? Explore the benefits and drawbacks of the gig economy.

And make sure to check out ted.cotfw.tk/worldecon or the World Economic Forum’s YouTube channel for more resources.

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Wondering how TED-Ed makes partnerships with other organizations and how those partnerships work? Learn more here.

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