Anshul Pfeffer, Israel correspondent for The Economist, sheds light on a historic moment as Binyamin Netanyahu becomes the first sitting prime minister to testify in his trial. He discusses the political turmoil surrounding Netanyahu's legal battles, set against a backdrop of national security issues and public protests. The conversation also touches on the financial pitfalls of obtaining a master's degree, highlighting how many graduates may not see a return on their investment. Additionally, book recommendations for 2024 spark excitement on diverse themes.
Netanyahu's testimony in his corruption trial raises questions about his governance during ongoing crises in Israel and reveals political tensions.
The financial value of master's degrees is increasingly questionable, as many graduates face minimal returns and significant educational debts.
Deep dives
The Complexity of Postgraduate Degrees
Postgraduate education, especially master's degrees, may not always provide the financial returns that many individuals expect. Statistics indicate that while master's degree holders generally earn more than those with just a bachelor's degree, this difference can be misleading due to various underlying factors. A significant portion of master's programs in the U.S. reportedly offers little to no financial return, with some graduates even finding themselves worse off after factoring in tuition costs and lost potential earnings. This trend suggests that many students are pursuing advanced degrees driven by the fear of falling behind in an increasingly competitive job market rather than making informed choices about their education.
Political Implications of Netanyahu's Legal Issues
Israeli Prime Minister Benjamin Netanyahu's ongoing legal battles have far-reaching implications beyond the courtroom. As he faces accusations related to corruption and bribery, concerns have emerged regarding how these trials intersect with his ability to govern effectively, especially during ongoing conflicts in Gaza and surrounding regions. Critics view the legal proceedings as a 'witch hunt', while supporters argue that they symbolize an essential accountability within Israeli politics. The situation has resulted in substantial political distraction for Netanyahu, potentially undermining his coalition government amid existing public discontent over his handling of various crises.
Recommended Reads for 2024
As 2024 approaches, a selection of notable books has been recommended for readers seeking engaging literature. Titles like 'Kingmaker', a biography of Pamela Churchill, explore the life and influence of intriguing historical figures, while novels like 'Mania' by Lionel Shriver delve into contemporary societal challenges through a satirical lens. Meanwhile, narratives such as 'The Forbidden Garden' highlight historical events, offering profound insights into human resilience during crises. These recommendations reflect a diverse range of genres and themes, promising thought-provoking experiences for book lovers as they navigate the literary landscape of the upcoming year.
For five years the prospect of a criminal prosecution has loomed over Binyamin Netanyahu. Today he becomes the first Israeli prime minister to testify as a defendant. A shocking fraction of master’s degrees confer no financial benefit—and may even leave degree-holders worse off (10:43). And our staff share their picks for the best books of 2024 (16:58).