The Loaded Potato

Who knew the radical effect the humble potato had on development? As Paul Kedrosky quotes from a recent study, "the introduction of the potato explains 22% of the observed post-1700 increase in population growth."

The study goes on to state "According to our estimates, the introduction of the potato explains 47% of the post-1700 increase in the average urbanization rate. Our estimates suggest that increased agricultural productivity can play a significant part in promoting the rise of urban centers, industry, and economic development."

Celebrate by making potato skins (TheComfortisAlwaysHere, a recent submission to FoodGawker).