Episode 105
105. Light Bulbs
Why did it take so long to invent a longer-lasting bulb? Zachary Crockett finds the answer illuminating.
The Economics of Everyday Things
September 8, 202518m 47s
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Show Notes
Why did it take so long to invent a longer-lasting bulb? Zachary Crockett finds the answer illuminating.
- SOURCES:
- Heather Dillon, mechanical engineering professor at the University of Washington in Tacoma.
- Jane Brox, author of the 2010 book Brilliant: The Evolution of Artificial Light.
- Markus Krajewski, philosopher and historian of technology at the University of Basel in Switzerland.
- RESOURCES:
- "Thomas Edison, tinkerer," by Eric Gilliam (Works in Progress, 2023).
- "It's Official: Stores Can No Longer Sell Most Incandescent Lights," by Hiroko Tabuchi (New York Times, 2023).
- "The Mystery of the Centennial Bulb: an Incandescent Light Bulb," by Martin Kykta (MAK Electro-Optics, 2021).
- "The Great Lightbulb Conspiracy," by Markus Krajewski (IEEE Spectrum, 2014).
- "Compact Fluorescent Lighting in America: Lessons Learned on the Way to Market," by L.J. Sandahl, T.L. Gilbride, M.R. Ledbetter, H.E. Steward, and C. Calwell (U.S. Department of Energy, 2006).
- EXTRAS:
- "Why Do Candles Still Exist?" by Freakonomics Radio (2025).
- "The Story of Byron the Bulb," by Thomas Pynchon (Gravity's Rainbow, 1973).
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