Intelligence Squared
Chokepoints: Economic Warfare in the Modern World, with Edward Fishman
Feb 23, 2025
Edward Fishman, a leading authority on economic statecraft and a professor at Columbia University, shares insights from his book on economic warfare. He discusses how the U.S. uses economic tools like sanctions to assert its power in global crises. Along with Chris Miller, a Tufts University historian, they examine the complexities of sanctions against countries like Iran and Russia. They also delve into the evolving nature of economic strategies in modern diplomacy and the role of technology in navigating these turbulent times.
46:51
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Quick takeaways
- Edward Fishman illustrates how the U.S. has shifted towards economic sanctions as a primary tool for addressing international crises instead of relying on military action.
- The concept of choke points reveals critical areas in the global economy where U.S. sanctions can exert significant leverage, particularly regarding the dollar and key supply chains.
Deep dives
The Role of Economic Statecraft in Global Policy
Economic tools such as sanctions and trade restrictions have emerged as primary means for the U.S. to address international crises, according to insights shared by Edward Fishman. He emphasizes that military action often faces public resistance and has limited efficacy, particularly in recent conflicts like Iraq and Afghanistan. This shift towards economic statecraft reflects a broader trend where nations increasingly leverage their economic influence to achieve diplomatic objectives. The recent use of sanctions against countries like Iran and Russia illustrates this evolution in strategy.
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