Economist Podcasts

Living larger: Google’s challenges

Jul 31, 2020
Ludwig Sigle, U.S. technology editor for The Economist, navigates Google's monumental growth and the challenges it faces, from market scrutiny to data privacy concerns. Ryan Avent, author of the Free Exchange column, links economic success with hygiene through history, analyzing how pandemics have shaped wealth. The discussion also sheds light on Dubai's innovative tourism strategies amidst extreme summer heat and ongoing pandemic recovery, showcasing both historical lessons and modern adaptations.
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INSIGHT

Google's Evolution

  • Google (Alphabet) evolved from a single company into a diverse collection of services.
  • These include Android, Search, YouTube, and various "moonshot" ventures.
INSIGHT

Google's Future

  • While Google's growth might slow, a steep decline is unlikely.
  • A changing environment and cultural shifts pose significant challenges.
ANECDOTE

Google's Cultural Shift

  • Google's increasing size and diversity led to internal conflicts, like the James Damore memo incident.
  • A walkout by 20,000 employees over sexual harassment payouts marked a cultural turning point.
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