Posts — The Rest of the Iceberg

The Rest of the Iceberg will help you understand the world. It answers questions and explains the backstories so you can make sense of what you see on the surface. That understanding will help you engage the world’s challenges better.

Learn more

Dec 18

Dec 18 Why Are the Streets So Wide in Paris?

Alister Chapman

Europe, Urban planning

Paris used to be known for its narrow, grimy streets. Cramped conditions and filthy water encouraged the spread of cholera and typhus. This was the Paris where Les Misérables of Victor Hugo’s imagination lived. Hugo set his story in 1832. By the time Hugo died in 1885, Paris was being called the most beautiful city in the world. What happened? How did Paris change so fast? And what was the point of all those new, wide streets?

Dec 5

Dec 5 Why is Singapore So Rich?

Alister Chapman

Asia, Geopolitics, Globalization, Technology

If you live somewhere that’s relatively wealthy and successful, following world news can be uncomfortable. As you see countries sunk in poverty, war, or injustice you may wonder why the world is so unfair. And you probably also ask whether there’s a solution—whether there’s a way for other countries to flourish. On the surface, Singapore seems like it offers hope. In the early 1960’s, it was poorer than Mexico. 25 years later, it was three times as rich. How did it do it? And should other countries copy Singapore?

Dec 18 Why Are the Streets So Wide in Paris?

Dec 5 Why is Singapore So Rich?

What’s your question about the world you see?

© The Rest of the Iceberg