Forum for Innovation

The Economist used data from the Bureau of Labor Statistics to find the large metro areas in America that have gained the most since the Great Recession (as well as those that haven’t done so well).  It turns out that Texas cities have experienced some of the most rapid employment growth of any places in America.  Of the top 10 fastest growing cities, 4 are in Texas and one is just across the state’s northern border (Oklahoma City).   The story is the same when you expand the list to the top 20 in growth or even the top 50 metros.  It is true that Texas has made the most of some very unique opportunities to fuel that growth, such as sitting on large natural gas reserves.  Yet if we’re looking to create jobs in America, it must be pointed out that, as the blog’s author Ryan Avent concludes, “Every state can be a little Texas.” 

Providing yet more evidence of the innovations being made in agriculture, The New Scientist looks at the latest technologies for controlling livestock emissions.  The specter of climate change is encouraging research into devices that can be dropped into the stomach of cows to monitor their digestive system.  

Felix Salmon explores the “economics of artisanal chocolate.”  

Feeling confused about the upcoming fiscal cliff?  Wonkbook has you covered with this handy FAQ. 

Researchers at Hiroshima University have finally confirmed that the secret to workplace productivity is found in looking at pictures of cute animals. 

NCF Scholar Nick Schulz: “Send me your poor, your tired… your engineers, yearning to code free.”