Films with: Strahan, David

Best of times, worst of times

Describes how industrialization and science transformed the world by creating revolutionary changes in transport and communications and expanding international trade, which led to an age of great wealth creation. Examines the economic tensions which were the crucial causes of two world wars which destroyed human life and economic wealth on an unimaginable scale. Analyzes the importance of science and technology, banking and big business, immigration, nationalism, and laissez-faire capitalism as forces for rapid societal change. Also addresses economic collapse in post-World War I Germany and America.

DVD 2298

End of the beginning?

Asks whether, just as there was once a time without wealth, might there come a time without poverty? Scrutinizes the attempts by Great Britain, Russia, the People's Republic of China, and Tanzania to stabilize and recharge their economies during the last half-century. Presents interviews with citizens who have lived through both good times and bad, which reveal the mixed results of governmental and institutional efforts to raise their standards of living. Looks ahead to the year 2300 and makes intriguing predictions as to the state of the world's economy.

DVD 2637