

Coronavirus and Global Politics: Your Questions Answered
Apr 10, 2020
In a thought-provoking discussion, Anne Applebaum, a Pulitzer Prize-winning historian, David Goodhart, a renowned author, and Paul Mason, a political commentator, tackle the pandemic's impact on global politics. They debate whether the rise of 'big government' is here to stay and how populist leaders might emerge stronger amidst the crisis. The guests explore the chaotic effectiveness of border controls, China's growing influence, and the potential for renewed global solidarity. They also reflect on the balance between state power and individual freedoms in a rapidly changing world.
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Big Government's Uncertain Future
- Governments are taking on new roles due to the pandemic, intervening in unprecedented ways.
- This expansion of government power could face public pushback as fear subsides.
Border Closures: A False Sense of Security?
- Border closures offer an illusion of control but are not a complete solution.
- They cause chaos and may not be effective if the virus has already spread.
The Limits of Populism
- The pandemic may reveal the need for experts and established processes rather than populist leaders.
- The crisis exposes the limitations of simplistic solutions and highlights the importance of expertise.