One Decision Are Tech Barons Amassing Too Much Power in America?
21 snips
Aug 7, 2025 
Ruth Ben-Ghiat, a historian specializing in authoritarian leaders, dives into the complexities of modern autocracy. She discusses the psychological traits of powerful leaders like Putin and Gaddafi, revealing their obsessive behaviors. The conversation shifts to how tech oligarchs are reshaping political dynamics, creating a new breed of authoritarianism. Ben-Ghiat also highlights the illusion of competence among strongman leaders and the challenges democracies face as these figures promote themselves as saviors while obscuring failures.
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Early Meeting with Putin
- Sir Richard Dearlove met Vladimir Putin early in his presidency when Putin was still forming his leadership style.
- Putin appeared reasonable but showed a deep obsession with restoring Russia's historical power and status.
Traits of Authoritarian Leaders
- Authoritarian leaders combine personality traits of amoral pragmatism and transactional use of people.
- Their selfish, loyalist-driven governance style dates back historically to leaders like Mussolini.
Authoritarian Echo Chambers
- Authoritarians surround themselves with loyalists and family, creating echo chambers.
- This often leads to policy mistakes and eventual political backfire that weakens their power.
