Name game: What baby names say about today's culture

名字游戏:婴儿名字透露的今日文化

Editor's Picks from The Economist

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2025-03-27

12 分钟
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A handpicked article read aloud from the latest issue of The Economist. Naming a baby is the first of many defining choices parents will make in the lives of their children. These choices also provide a rich insight into the cultural currents defining a time and place. Listen to what matters most, from global politics and business to science and technology—subscribe to Economist Podcasts+. For more information about how to access Economist Podcasts+, please visit our FAQs page or watch our video explaining how to link your account.
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  • The Economist Hello, I'm Rosie Blore.

  • I host The Intelligence, our daily news and current affairs podcast.

  • Welcome to Editor's Picks.

  • Here's an article we've chosen from the latest edition of The Economist.

  • A squalling infant is put into your arms.

  • As you admire this small person, you begin to wonder what the future has in store.

  • Will she be shy or outgoing, studious or lazy?

  • Will she have an artistic streak or a rebellious one?

  • As you ponder these questions, the doctor asks another,

  • more urgent one, what will you call the baby?

  • Choosing a name is one of the first enduring decisions parents must make on behalf of their child.

  • Their selection tends to reflect their values and hopes for their offspring.

  • Those with an interest in science may opt for Albert or Marie.

  • More literary types may be tempted by Agatha or Ernest.

  • If you desire a child who is sturdy and traditional, you might plump for John.

  • If you want a youngster to stand out from the crowd,

  • you might go with Apple, or maybe even X-Ash A12.

  • Every parent knows living namesakes matter as much as past ones.

  • In America, Donald is a less popular choice than it was in 2010,

  • given to just 414 children in 2023.