The Drivers of Expensive Projects: Past and Present

TLDRExpensive projects throughout history have been motivated by the desire to survive, the promise of economic return, or the praise of royalty or deity. The recent decline in major funded projects can be attributed to the absence of these drivers.

Key insights

💰The promise of economic return has been a key driver of expensive projects throughout history.

⚔️The desire to survive or prevail in times of conflict has motivated nations to undertake grand projects.

🌌The praise of royalty or deity was historically a driving force behind major projects, but has become less common today.

Q&A

What are the drivers of expensive projects?

Expensive projects are typically motivated by the desire to survive, the promise of economic return, or the praise of royalty or deity.

Why have major funded projects declined in recent years?

The decline in major funded projects can be attributed to the absence of the drivers mentioned earlier, such as the end of major conflicts and a decrease in the influence of royalty or deity.

What is the significance of economic return in driving projects?

The promise of economic return has historically driven major projects, as they have the potential to boost economic growth and prosperity.

Has the desire to survive always been a driver of expensive projects?

Yes, throughout history, nations have invested in expensive projects to ensure their survival or gain an advantage over rival powers.

Why was the praise of royalty or deity less common in recent times?

The decline in the influence of royalty and less reliance on religious motivations has made the praise of royalty or deity less common in driving major projects.

Timestamped Summary

00:23Expensive projects have historically been motivated by the desire to survive, the promise of economic return, or the praise of royalty or deity.

10:30The decline in major funded projects can be attributed to the absence of these drivers in modern times.

16:26The recent decline in major funded projects stems from a decrease in the influence of royalty or deity and the absence of major conflicts.