# Prof. Paul Romer is highlighted for first proposing the concept of meta-ideas

1 Faculty News February 28, 2012 ![WIRED logo](/sites/default/files/styles/246w/public/assets/images/con_032348.jpg?itok=Wszefc-R)>

Excerpt from [WIRED](http://www.wired.com/magazine/2012/02/st_essay_genius/) -- "The secret, it turns out, is the presence of particular meta-ideas, which support the spread of other ideas. First proposed by economist [Paul Romer](http://www.stern.nyu.edu/faculty/bio/paul-romer), meta-ideas include concepts like the patent system, public libraries, and universal education."

[Read more](http://www.wired.com/magazine/2012/02/st_essay_genius/)