Cautionary Tales with Tim Harford The Deadly Airship Race
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Nov 29, 2019 Dive into a gripping tale of rivalry where two design teams compete to create the ultimate airship, leading to ambitious designs teetering on disaster. Explore the design flaws of the opulent R101 and the pressures that turned innovation into tragedy. As weather worsens, ambition clashes with nature, pushing the crew to their limits. Finally, witness the harrowing crash that left a lone survivor, highlighting the stakes of competition in the pioneering days of aviation.
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R100's Challenges
- The R100 team faced budget constraints, a leaky shed, and a distant location.
- They also resented the Air Ministry's control over the competition.
The Downside of Competition
- Excessive competition can be detrimental, as it discourages collaboration.
- A study by Drago and Garvey found that high-stakes competitions led to reduced helpfulness among colleagues.
Luxury Over Safety
- Lord Thompson's grand vision for the R101 included luxurious amenities, increasing its weight.
- This focus on luxury came at the expense of practicality and safety.