Digest

The Economist's Intelligence podcast explores the shift in international student demographics, with Indian students now surpassing Chinese students in many countries. This trend is driven by India's growing university-aged population, rising wealth, and a desire for higher-quality education abroad. The podcast also examines the increasing severity of heat waves and the need for comprehensive adaptation plans to address the vulnerability of certain groups, particularly the poor, elderly, and those working in physically demanding jobs. Finally, the podcast delves into the burgeoning market for full-body deodorant in the United States, highlighting the cultural anxieties surrounding body odor and the potential health concerns associated with using these products in sensitive areas.

Outlines

00:00:00

Introduction

This Chapter introduces the Intelligence podcast from The Economist, hosted by Jason Palmer and Rosie Bloor, which provides daily insights on global events.

00:02:03

Heat Waves: A Growing Threat

This Chapter discusses the increasing frequency and severity of heat waves across the Northern Hemisphere, highlighting the need for proactive measures to mitigate their impact. Rachel Dobs, a climate correspondent for The Economist, emphasizes the importance of addressing vulnerability to extreme heat, which is often linked to inequality and socioeconomic factors. She advocates for comprehensive adaptation plans that target vulnerable groups and implement measures like painting roofs white, promoting flexible work policies, and improving access to air conditioning.

00:09:54

The Rise of Indian Students

This Chapter explores the surge in Indian students studying abroad, surpassing Chinese students in many countries. Mark Johnson, the Economist's education correspondent, attributes this trend to India's growing university-aged population, rising wealth, and the perceived limitations of the domestic university system. He discusses the potential benefits and challenges of this influx, including the potential for brain drain, the economic contributions of foreign students, and the growing concerns about immigration.

00:16:05

Full Body Deodorant: A New Frontier

This Chapter examines the growing popularity of full-body deodorant in the United States, highlighting the cultural anxieties surrounding body odor and the potential health concerns associated with using these products in sensitive areas. Annie Crabble, a news editor at The Economist, discusses the marketing strategies employed by companies like Looney, which promote the use of deodorant for all parts of the body, and the potential for these products to exacerbate existing gendered expectations about body odor.

Keywords

Q&A

• What are the main factors driving the increase in Indian students studying abroad?

  The increase in Indian students studying abroad is driven by several factors, including India's growing university-aged population, rising wealth, and the perceived limitations of the domestic university system. Many Indian students believe they can obtain a better education and career opportunities by studying abroad.

• How are heat waves becoming a more significant threat, and what measures can be taken to address them?

  Heat waves are becoming more frequent and intense due to climate change, posing significant health risks, particularly for vulnerable populations. To address this threat, comprehensive adaptation plans are needed that target vulnerable groups and implement measures like painting roofs white, promoting flexible work policies, and improving access to air conditioning.

• What are the potential benefits and challenges of the growing number of Indian students studying abroad?

  The influx of Indian students can benefit receiving countries by providing access to a skilled workforce and contributing to economic growth. However, it can also lead to concerns about brain drain, immigration, and potential competition for resources. The shift in student demographics may also exacerbate existing tensions surrounding immigration.

• What are the potential health concerns associated with using full-body deodorant?

  While full-body deodorant can provide a sense of confidence and hygiene, there are potential health concerns associated with using these products in sensitive areas. Some gynecologists advise against using products with fragrance in the groin area, as they can cause irritation or infections. Additionally, the marketing of these products can perpetuate gendered expectations about body odor and reinforce the idea that women need to conform to certain standards of smell.

• What are some examples of successful adaptation strategies for dealing with heat waves?

  France has implemented a comprehensive heat wave adaptation plan since 2004, which includes measures like providing working advice, replacing hot surfaces in playgrounds, and developing detailed protocols for hospitals and communities. This plan has been successful in reducing heat-related deaths, demonstrating the importance of proactive measures.

• How might the shift in international student demographics impact immigration debates?

  The growing number of Indian students, who tend to be more inclined to stay on after their studies, could exacerbate existing tensions surrounding immigration. This is because Indian students are more likely to seek post-study visas and potentially contribute to a larger influx of skilled workers, which could raise concerns about competition for jobs and resources.

• What are some of the potential consequences of policymakers becoming more restrictive towards international students?

  If policymakers become more restrictive towards international students, it could have negative consequences for universities, which rely heavily on income from overseas students. It could also limit the opportunities for global talent exchange and hinder the flow of skilled workers to countries that need them.

• What are the potential implications of the growing market for full-body deodorant?

  The growing market for full-body deodorant reflects a cultural shift towards a more comprehensive approach to personal hygiene, but it also raises concerns about the potential for increased anxiety and paranoia about body odor. The marketing of these products can also perpetuate gendered expectations about smell and reinforce the idea that women need to conform to certain standards of hygiene.

• What are some of the key takeaways from the discussion about heat waves?

  Heat waves are a growing threat that requires proactive measures to mitigate their impact. Addressing vulnerability to extreme heat is crucial, and this often involves addressing inequality and socioeconomic factors. Comprehensive adaptation plans that target vulnerable groups and implement measures like improving access to air conditioning and promoting flexible work policies are essential.

• What are some of the key takeaways from the discussion about international students?

  The shift in international student demographics, with Indian students now surpassing Chinese students in many countries, presents both opportunities and challenges. While this influx can benefit receiving countries by providing access to a skilled workforce and contributing to economic growth, it also raises concerns about brain drain, immigration, and potential competition for resources. Policymakers need to carefully consider the implications of this shift and ensure that policies are in place to manage the influx of international students effectively.

Show Notes