Scott Horton, author of "Provoked" and foreign policy expert, dives deep into the new Cold War dynamics and the Ukraine conflict. He discusses the complexities of U.S. military support for Ukraine, unveiling the impact of American actions on Russian perceptions. Horton questions longtime narratives surrounding international relations, highlights the dangers of misinformation, and critiques U.S. interventionist policies. His insights into Putin's motivations and the broader implications of geopolitical tensions are both thought-provoking and timely.
Scott Horton discusses the critical narratives pushed by the media that shape public perception of foreign policy, particularly regarding the Ukraine invasion.
The podcast critiques U.S. foreign policy by examining past failures to heed intelligence warnings about escalating tensions with Russia.
Horton emphasizes the often unaccountable role of intelligence agencies in influencing government actions and public opinion during geopolitical conflicts.
Deep dives
Convenience of Holiday Shopping
Using a delivery service like Instacart can significantly simplify holiday shopping, especially when one finds themselves short on decorations. There may be various reasons for suddenly needing additional items, such as not having enough wreaths for multiple windows or a toddler's overzealous approach to the advent calendar. The ease of accessing holiday decorations from retailers like The Home Depot and CVS allows hosts to meet their decorating needs without unnecessary stress. This convenience becomes particularly appealing during the busy holiday season when time is limited.
Quality and Fit of Baby Products
The importance of well-fitting diapers for active babies is highlighted through the example of Huggies Little Movers. These diapers are designed with curves to accommodate babies of all shapes and sizes, ensuring comfort and reducing leaks during active play. Parents often find ill-fitting diapers can lead to discomfort for their children, making quality a crucial factor when selecting baby products. Huggies aims to address these concerns, providing an effective solution for parents striving for dependable performance.
The Impact of Media on Perceptions
The episode delves into the influence of media narratives on public perception, specifically in relation to foreign policy issues like the invasion of Ukraine. The discussion highlights how framing techniques, such as labeling conflicts as 'unprovoked', can shape people's understanding of complex geopolitical situations. This framing often ignores the historical context and events leading up to such conflicts, consequently affecting public opinion and policy decisions. By perpetuating certain narratives, media outlets can manipulate perceptions and hinder nuanced discussions about foreign affairs.
Critiques of Foreign Policy Strategies
The podcast features a critical examination of U.S. foreign policy, particularly regarding its approach to Russia and Ukraine. It discusses the consequences of actions taken during past administrations, including failures to heed warnings from intelligence officials about potential provocations. This critique emphasizes the need for accountability and an understanding of historical context concerning international relations. The arguments presented highlight a recurring theme of negligence by government officials in recognizing the implications of their policies on global stability.
The Role of Intelligence Agencies
There is a focus on the role of intelligence agencies in shaping government actions and public opinion, particularly during contentious political periods. The discussion critiques how these agencies often operate outside democratic oversight, leading to questionable actions and narratives that can mislead the public. This dynamic raises concerns about accountability and the ethical implications of state actions, especially regarding interventions in foreign nations. The conversation urges listeners to consider the consequences of such dynamics in the context of current global politics and conflicts.
Dave Smith brings you the latest in politics! On this episode of Part Of The Problem, Dave is joined by Scott Horton to discuss his new book Provoked: How Washington Started the New Cold War with Russia and the Catastrophe in Ukraine including his experience with writing this book, the war with Russia and Ukraine, the terror wars, and more.