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The LRB Podcast
A Conversation with Neal Ascherson
Jan 1, 2025
Neal Ascherson, a seasoned journalist with six decades of experience, shares riveting stories from his extensive career, including a close call with a historical scoop involving Mikhail Gorbachev. He reflects on the impact of Claud Cockburn's journalism, ethics during brutal conflicts, and the nuances of transitioning from Communism. Ascherson discusses his time in colonial Uganda, the personal complexities of mentorship, and the lively spirit of Poland during its fight for independence. He also critiques the thin line between patriotism and nationalism.
01:16:54
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Quick takeaways
- Neal Ascherson reflects on Claud Cockburn's journalistic philosophy, emphasizing the importance of curiosity and defiance against media secrecy.
- The podcast discusses the ethical dilemmas in journalism, notably Cockburn's balance between moral responsibility and necessary fabrications for greater truths.
Deep dives
Claude Coburn's Journalistic Legacy
Claude Coburn was distinguished by his intense curiosity and an aversion to media secrecy, traits that defined his impactful journalism. His early career included writing for mainstream outlets, although he often clashed with editors who favored a more politically aligned narrative. This tension led him to establish his own publication, 'The Week,' through which he aimed to expose political hypocrisy and shed light on global crises of the 1930s. His daring approach to journalism, exemplified by exposing the British government's leniency towards Nazi Germany, demonstrated his commitment to uncovering truths that mainstream journalism often overlooked.
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Discover
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