Economist Podcasts The Intelligence: Mandela’s vision, tested
May 6, 2024
John McDermott, Chief Africa correspondent for The Economist, discusses the mixed legacy of Mandela's vision in South Africa, focusing on rising discontent among youth regarding corruption and inequality as elections loom. Annie Crabel highlights how small Texas towns like Waco and Marshall are emerging as patent litigation hubs, reshaping the legal landscape and the tech industry. Meanwhile, Anne Rowe pays tribute to Eleanor Coppola, revealing the behind-the-scenes challenges of creating the iconic film 'Apocalypse Now' while reflecting on artistic resilience.
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Despondent Mood
- South Africans are disillusioned with democracy due to unmet economic expectations.
- Record low satisfaction and a willingness to forego elections for an autocratic leader who can deliver basic needs reveal this.
Economic Disillusionment
- Economic stagnation and declining infrastructure are major factors in South African disillusionment.
- Declining GDP per capita, rising unemployment, and lack of basic services like water contribute to this.
Born Free Disillusionment
- The "born free" generation, lacking apartheid as a benchmark, feels particularly despondent.
- High youth unemployment and unmet post-apartheid expectations fuel their frustration.
