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Intelligence Squared

The Saudi Project, Part One: The Birth of a Nation

Nov 22, 2023
19:30
Snipd AI
Madawi Al-Rasheed, Saudi Arabian professor of social anthropology and author of Salman's Legacy, explores the foundations of the Saudi state and how religion and oil shaped the kingdom. The podcast covers the significance and discovery of oil in Saudi Arabia, the country's transformation and diversification efforts, as well as the ongoing debate on approaching Saudi Arabia in terms of business opportunities and ethical concerns.
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Quick takeaways

  • Religion and oil were the two key factors that shaped the foundation of the Saudi state.
  • Saudi Arabia's heavy reliance on oil has created economic instability and the need for diversification.

Deep dives

Foundations of the Saudi State

The podcast explores the origins of the Saudi state, which was officially recognized in 1932. The ruling Al-Saud family embarked on a series of conquests, using claims of historical leadership and religion as pretexts for spreading their influence. This expansion was approved by the British, who supervised the Arabian Peninsula at the time. The formation of the state was heavily influenced by religion, particularly the adoption of the radical Wahhabi teachings, which played a significant role in the consolidation of power.

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