Join us for episode 13 of The Torch of Progress with Adam Wiggins

Key Discussion Points:Thomas Edison, Bell Labs, ARPA, and Xerox PARC: what do all of these people and groups have in common? They are all pioneers of the industrial research model.

Basic science concerns itself with the search for truth, without any focus on how its findings may impact human existence. Business (even innovation ones like Silicon Valley startups) tend to put existing technology into practice, rather than inventing something new. Industrial research sits in the middle of this spectrum, seeking to find breakthrough ideas that have commercial applications on a five- to ten-year time horizon.

Adam walks through this history, which was a big influence for his independent research lab, Ink & Switch (www.inkandswitch.com).

Guest Speaker Adam Wiggins:Hi, I’m Adam, and my mission is to improve computers and the internet in the service of human prosperity. Right now I’m building Muse, which turns your iPad into a tool for thought. In the past, I founded the Ink & Switch research lab and Heroku. I design products, build teams, write, podcast, and occasionally invest. I’m from California but have settled in Berlin.

Follow me on Twitter: @hirodusk