The Inventor Who Almost Ended the World

Cautionary Tales with Tim Harford - The Inventor Who Almost Ended the World

Transcript Summary

In this fascinating episode titled "The Inventor Who Almost Ended the World," the podcast explores the life and inventions of Thomas Midgley Jr., a prolific inventor whose inventions had unintended and disastrous consequences. Midgley, working for General Motors, was fascinated by chemistry and invented dichlorodifluoromethane (CFC), a seemingly safe refrigerant that rapidly gained popularity in refrigerators and air conditioners. However, it was later discovered that CFCs destroy the ozone layer, thanks to the groundbreaking work of scientists Sherwood Rowland and Mario Molina. Despite mounting evidence, the industry fiercely resisted banning CFCs. Midgley himself suffered from the unintended effects of his inventions as he died from polio caused by one of his own creations. This episode touches upon the concept of unanticipated consequences and highlights the dangers of leaded gasoline, another invention of Midgley's, which caused health issues and environmental damage. Throughout the episode, alternative solutions and warnings from experts like Alice Hamilton were overlooked. The episode culminates with the establishment of the Montreal Protocol, a crucial step in phasing out CFCs. Engaging and thought-provoking, this episode sheds light on the intersection of scientific discovery, industrial interests, and the delicate balance between progress and unforeseen consequences.

Transcript