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Intelligence Squared
Holiday Reads: Mary Beard, Rory Stewart, Tomiwa Owolade and Tania Branigan
Dec 18, 2023
01:05:05
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Mary Beard, Rory Stewart, Tomiwa Owolade, and Tania Branigan discuss topics including China’s cultural revolution, Black lives in Britain, ancient Roman rule, and the challenges of wielding power in modern politics. They delve into the importance of nuanced discussions on race and identity, the impact of location on experiences of slavery, and the concept of authentic leadership. The speakers recommend books and provide fascinating insights into various topics.
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Quick takeaways
- Emperors of Rome faced challenges in governing the vast empire due to distance, communication lag, and reliance on intermediaries.
- Transformative shifts in power can occur when leaders enact policies that challenge norms or correct historical injustices.
Deep dives
Rome's Emperors: Power and Performance
Emperors of Rome had limited control and faced challenges in managing and controlling the vast empire. Despite being seen as figures of power, they often grappled with the practicalities of governance. Their decisions and actions were influenced by factors such as distance, communication lag, and intermediaries. The role of bureaucracy and the inability to control every detail made it difficult for emperors to maintain direct control over every aspect of the empire. While modern politicians may have instantaneous communication and more extensive control over various aspects of governance, they still face challenges in wielding power and making practical changes. The example of Lyndon Johnson is cited, who despite his less than ideal personal qualities, championed significant civil rights legislation in the United States. The notion of power being derived from performance and symbols is evident in both ancient and modern governance.
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Discover
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