Making Sense with Sam Harris

#429 — The New World Order

245 snips
Aug 11, 2025
Anne Applebaum, a Pulitzer Prize-winning historian, dives deep into the erosion of democracy both domestically and globally. She and Sam discuss the Sudanese civil war and the detrimental role of foreign powers. They examine America's diminishing leadership and the implications of USAID cuts on humanitarian efforts. The conversation also touches on gerrymandering, the integrity of U.S. elections, and the potential aftermath of Trump's influence on politics, including rising figures like JD Vance.
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INSIGHT

Sudan's War Is A Power Grab

  • Sudan's conflict isn't ideological or purely ethnic; it's a fight for power, money, territory, and gold.
  • Civilians suffer as fighters loot and target populations with mercenaries told they can steal.
INSIGHT

Foreign Powers Fuel The Fighting

  • Multiple states and proxies supply weapons and seek advantage in Sudan, worsening the conflict.
  • Outside powers prefer to profit rather than end the war.
ANECDOTE

Ukrainians Fighting Wagner In Sudan

  • Ukrainian fighters go to Sudan to attack Russian Wagner mercenaries amid the chaos.
  • They join the conflict attracted by the anarchy and opportunities to harm Russians.
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