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Making Sense with Sam Harris - Subscriber Content
#393 - Is History Repeating Itself?
Nov 26, 2024
In a thought-provoking conversation, historian Simon Sebag Montefiore delves into the complexities of the Middle East conflict and its historical roots. He examines the rise of global anti-Semitism, linking it to past events like the Crusades. Montefiore also discusses Jerusalem's role as a religious flashpoint and critiques contemporary foreign policies, shedding light on the struggles of Iranian citizens under theocracy. The episode highlights the intricate ties between history and current geopolitical challenges, urging a deeper understanding of these enduring issues.
01:33:38
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Quick takeaways
- Simon Sebag Montefiore stresses the value of firsthand historical experiences, particularly observing the Soviet Union's disintegration, for understanding narrative complexities.
- The collapse of post-World War II cooperation among global powers signals a return to historical chaos and power struggles reminiscent of past conflicts.
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Simon Sebag Montefiore's Historical Perspective
Simon Sebag Montefiore shares his unique insights as a historian, reflecting on his experiences during the disintegration of the Soviet Union in the early 1990s, which profoundly shaped his understanding of historical narratives. He attributes real-life observation of historical upheaval as invaluable training for a historian, emphasizing that witnessing an empire fall apart firsthand offers deeper lessons than reading books. His background includes studying significant historical figures like Catherine the Great and notable events such as the conquest of areas like Crimea, bringing to light how these past imperial ambitions resonate with contemporary geopolitical conflicts. This historical lens enhances our comprehension of current events, suggesting that history continually informs the present, particularly regarding power dynamics in regions like Russia and the Middle East.
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Discover
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