Freakonomics Radio 553. The Suddenly Diplomatic Rahm Emanuel
47 snips
Aug 17, 2023 
Rahm Emanuel, former chief of staff to President Obama and now U.S. ambassador to Japan, discusses his unique and often blunt approach to diplomacy. He tackles the tensions between Japan and China, emphasizing the need for a strategic U.S. reevaluation. Emanuel reflects on the evolving military ties amid increasing regional threats and shares insights on combating anti-Semitism. He also addresses the complexities of international relations, highlighting the personal connections that shape diplomacy.
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The Emanuel Brothers
- The Emanuel brothers are known for their competitive and argumentative nature.
- Rahm's childhood accident of losing part of his finger adds to his tough persona.
Japan's Military Buildup
- Japan's military buildup is influenced by its alliance with the U.S. and China's increasing aggression.
- The U.S. plays an important role as an ally, having a large military presence in Japan.
A Multifaceted Alliance
- Japan's alliance with the U.S. extends beyond military, encompassing political, diplomatic, economic, and cultural aspects.
- A key example is Japan influencing other Asian countries to condemn Russia's war against Ukraine.