Lawrence Wong, Singapore's fourth leader, discusses balancing US-China relations, economy, and democracy. Impact of climate change on archaeology. Biopic on classical music. Podcast delves into global politics, business, and technology.
Singapore's new leader Lawrence Wong aims to balance diplomatic ties with America and China while focusing on economic growth and democracy.
Climate change poses a threat to archaeological sites globally, erasing historical treasures and challenging conservation efforts.
Deep dives
New Leadership in Singapore: Challenges and Opportunities
Singapore is transitioning to new leadership under Lawrence Wong, who will take over as the fourth prime minister. He faces the task of maintaining the country's economic progress amidst changing dynamics between China and the West. Wong's more accessible background and focus on engaging citizens through initiatives like Forward Singapore reflect a shift towards a more open political system, addressing criticisms of illiberal domestic policies.
Climate Change Threatens Archaeological Sites
Climate change is accelerating coastal erosion, endangering archaeological sites like the know of Swanjo in Scotland. The increased storminess and rising sea levels are erasing historical treasures worldwide, posing challenges for preservation efforts. While new technologies like laser scanning offer hope for digitally recording sites, limited resources and slow policy responses hinder comprehensive conservation efforts.
The Enduring Legacy and Copyright Controversy of Ravel's Balero
Ravel's iconic piece Balero, known for its distinctive repetition, faces a copyright dispute complicated by convoluted ownership history. Miss Pender Castell's claim that Balero was a collaborative work may impact royalty distribution, sparking legal debate. Despite its enduring popularity and reinvention by modern artists, the piece's history intertwines with ongoing copyright challenges and its legacy of persistent appeal.
Lawrence Wong will only be the city-state’s fourth leader since its independence. Our foreign editor asks him how he hopes to balance diplomatic relationships with America and China, maintain economic success, and strengthen the country’s democracy. The impact of climate change on archaeology (11:31). And, a new biopic takes on one of the most lucrative, distinctive pieces of classical music (17:26).