Shoshank Joshi, Defense editor for The Economist, reveals how Russia is expertly orchestrating chaos globally, including election interference and disinformation tactics. Callum Williams, Senior economics writer, tackles inefficiencies in government spending, suggesting that raising taxes might be a pragmatic approach. Meanwhile, Maria Vilcek, News editor, reflects on the cultural significance of baked beans in Britain, discussing their evolution and the rise of trendy alternatives. Together, they offer a compelling exploration of power, politics, and culinary shifts.
The paradox of growing government size leading to inefficiency contrasts with the urgent need for effective public service delivery amid rising entitlement spending.
Russia's aggressive global tactics, marked by sabotage and disinformation campaigns, highlight a troubling shift in its international behavior and confrontation with the West.
Deep dives
Growing Inefficiencies in Government
Governments in the rich world are becoming larger yet less effective, posing a significant paradox in public administration. As these entities expand, they account for approximately 40% of GDP, a noticeable increase from about 30% in the 1960s. However, this growth in size has not translated into improved efficiency in service delivery, exemplified by infrastructure spending in the U.S. declining despite previous promises for enhancement, alongside the struggles of the U.K.'s National Health Service to show any meaningful improvement. These inefficiencies stem from a shift in government spending priorities, with significantly more resources now allocated to entitlement programs rather than essential public services, leading to a system unable to effectively deliver on its promises.
Russia's Escalated International Aggression
Recent observations indicate a marked increase in Russia's aggressive tactics on the global stage, particularly amidst the ongoing conflict in Ukraine. Western intelligence agencies, including MI5, report a surge in sabotage and covert operations within Europe, with incidents ranging from plots to attack American military installations to disinformation campaigns aimed at destabilizing political climates. Notable actions include attempts to sow discord in France and hacking offenses targeting Polish infrastructure, reflecting a shift towards more brazen and reckless behaviors from Russian intelligence. This escalating pattern of aggression not only demonstrates Russia's willingness to confront the West but also raises concerns about its newfound disregard for the traditional rules of international engagement.
Cultural Shifts in Bean Consumption
The British cultural attachment to baked beans is evolving as changing dietary trends encourage exploration beyond this traditional dish. With a growing awareness of health and nutrition, many Brits are now incorporating more types of pulses into their diets, driven by desires for cheaper protein sources and improved gut health. Various initiatives are underway to promote broader bean consumption, particularly among younger generations in schools and government cafeterias. Food influencers and chefs are creatively introducing alternative recipes that feature different types of beans, seeking to reshape the public's perception of beans as not only healthful but also versatile and delicious.
Aggression, election-meddling, “psychological destabilisation”: Russia’s leader is sowing chaos like never before. We ask what power the West has left to curtail it. As entitlements such as pensions have unceasingly grown, rich governments have become inefficient, lumbering beasts. One uncomfortable but clean fix is raising taxes (10:26). And Britain’s swish new offerings attempt to dethrone the revered baked bean (18:10).
