Who would want to be writing a weekly news magazine at the moment? It’s bad enough for the newspapers you wake up every morning and another twist or turn has occurred. So how does the Economist respond? Well in the only way it can, giving the historical perspective. History doesn’t change, and all you have to do is identify the relevant issues and write stuff well.

The Economist’s piece of the history of modern finance is excellent in giving this perspective. It should be good reading for anyone trying to get their head round the present financial situation.