Roger McShane, Middle East editor for The Economist, highlights the political upheaval in Tunisia following President Essebsi's passing, discussing the nation's struggle with economic challenges and the rise of populism. Joel Budd, Social policy editor, dives into the global pet ownership trend, exploring its societal implications and changing attitudes towards pets. The conversation also touches on the removal of state subsidies for homeopathy in France, raising questions about consumer habits and health perceptions.
Beji Caid Essebsi promised to fix the economy, re-establish security and consolidate Tunisia’s democracy—but all of that remains unresolved as the country begins its search for a new leader. Pet ownership is surging around the world, as are ways to pamper pets. Who owns whom here? And, homeopathy gets diluted as France removes its state subsidy for the pseudoscience.