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The Big Idea

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A big idea that shapes how we understand our place in the world - from the idea’s creator.

What are the big ideas shaping our world?  This new series from the BBC World Service picks the best ideas from economics to psychology, neuroscience to philosophy, political science to anthropology, and makes them easy to digest.

Each episode of "The Big Idea" outlines the important idea through the words of the person who’s developed the theory. In just nine minutes we offer a weekly chance to listen and feel just a little bit wiser.

The Big Idea: Economics and mosquito nets

Economics and Mosquito Nets

16/06/2018 GMT

Economics and mosquito nets

BBC World Service - The Big Idea, Economics and mosquito nets

What can economics tell us about the use of mosquito nets?

If you want to reduce malaria is it best to give people mosquito nets for free or make them pay?  The influential economist Esther Duflo worked out the answer….

What’s the best way of persuading parents in developing countries to immunize their kids?  Do women politicians make a difference to what policies are pursued?  If you want to reduce malaria is it best to give people mosquito nets for free or make them pay?  The influential economist Esther Duflo has revolutionised the way we answer these questions.  The secret is to introduce RCTs - Randomized Control Trials.

Producer: Dave Edmonds

(Image: Nurse with Needle, Credit: Shutterstock)

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