Another argument is that freer political institutions encouraged innovation and strong property rights created incentives for inventors. And finally, people often cite Europe's small population because small populations require labor-saving inventions. Oh, it's time for the open letter? An open letter to the steam engine. But first, let's see what's in the secret compartment today. Oh, it's a TARDIS, truly the apex of British industrialization. Dear steam engine, you know what's crazy?