The Wright Show
The Perils of a New Cold War (Connor Echols & Van Jackson)
Feb 14, 2025
Van Jackson, a senior lecturer at Victoria University of Wellington and author of the Undiplomatic newsletter, dives deep into the complexities of the U.S.-China cold war. He discusses the critical lessons from the first Cold War that policymakers overlook today. Jackson examines the roots of the current geopolitical rivalry and critiques the outdated views influencing American foreign policy. He also explores the impact of economic nationalism on inequality, the challenges of military power dynamics, and inefficiencies in U.S. industrial policy.
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Quick takeaways
- American policymakers' oversimplified view of the Cold War leads to misguided strategies and perpetuates contemporary instability.
- The economic rivalry between the U.S. and China exacerbates inequality, highlighting the shared struggles of both nations' working classes.
Deep dives
Misinterpretation of the Cold War's Lessons
American policymakers often misinterpret the Cold War, viewing it as a heroic struggle where democracy triumphed over communism. This oversimplified narrative leads to misguided foreign policies that echo the militaristic tendencies of the past, contributing to present-day instability. The true nature of the Cold War involved a complex regime of violence and secrecy that resulted in significant loss of life and democratic setbacks, which continues to be relevant today. Recognizing this reality is crucial, as it informs contemporary strategies and highlights the dangers of repeating historical mistakes.
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