Has the world lost the plot? John Lyons, Greg Sheridan, Emma Shortis, Josh Taylor with Natasha Mitchell
Apr 30, 2025
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Join Natasha Mitchell as she chats with a powerhouse panel: John Lyons, ABC's Washington bureau chief; Greg Sheridan, foreign editor at The Australian; Emma Shortis from the Australia Institute; and tech journalist Josh Taylor. They tackle pressing global issues, like the fragility of democracy post-WWII, the chilling impact of tech on governance, and the human cost of ongoing conflicts in Ukraine and Gaza. The rise of AI and its repercussions on jobs and creativity also take center stage, highlighting just how much our world is shifting.
The discussion highlights the shifting dynamics of American leadership under Trump's administration, raising concerns over potential global instability and the rise of China and Russia.
There is a growing crisis of confidence in democracy globally, particularly among younger generations questioning its effectiveness and America's role in safeguarding democratic values.
The impact of digital culture, especially social media, on politics is scrutinized for its role in shaping public discourse and the challenges it poses for democratic engagement.
Deep dives
The Impact of American Leadership on Global Stability
The discussion highlights the changing dynamics of American leadership and its implications for global stability, particularly in the context of Trump's administration. It points out the shift away from traditional checks and balances in American governance, with concerns that the President's actions could undermine democratic values both domestically and abroad. The panel suggests that this administration may represent a turning point where China and Russia could gain influence, challenging the established order that has prevailed since World War II. The fear is that the retreat of American power would present a vacuum in global leadership, potentially leading to increased aggression from nations like China regarding Taiwan.
The Fragility of Democracy and Future of Global Alliances
There is a consensus among the speakers that democracy worldwide is experiencing a crisis of confidence, particularly among younger generations who question its effectiveness. While some argue that America has been a stabilizing force for democracy, others point out that its current state reflects the failures of the democratic project. This enduring retreat of American leadership raises the question of how countries like Australia can recalibrate their foreign policies and alliances, particularly in light of emerging regional dynamics. The opportunity arises for Australia and other democracies to reinforce their values and perhaps even step into the leadership void left by the U.S.
The Digital Revolution and its Consequences
The influence of digital culture, particularly social media, on contemporary politics is heavily scrutinized, emphasizing its role in shaping public discourse and political engagement. The panel discusses how platforms like Facebook have altered the landscape of democracy, creating environments ripe for manipulation and misinformation. Concerns are raised about the capacity of technology giants to control narratives and sway political outcomes, particularly during election cycles. It’s recognized that as political campaigns increasingly leverage digital tools for influence, the challenge remains in regulating these technologies without stifling innovation and free speech.
Global Conflicts: The Human Perspective
Focus turns to the ongoing wars in Ukraine and Gaza, with the speakers emphasizing the importance of maintaining human perspectives amidst political rhetoric and media fatigue. The humanitarian crises emerging from these conflicts serve as reminders of the devastating impact war has on innocent civilians, particularly children. Reports from journalists and eyewitnesses highlight not only the physical toll but also the psychological ramifications of warfare on affected populations. The dialogue calls for a sustained global awareness and compassion, stressing that such wars should remain at the forefront of public consciousness, lest the world grows indifferent to their suffering.
Navigating a Fragmented Global Order
The conversations reflect on the complexity of international relations as traditional alliances shift and evolve in response to current global events. With nations potentially reassessing their foreign policies, the need for Australia to engage in genuine partnerships with its neighbors becomes apparent. Emphasis is placed on the importance of climate action, viewing it as a key issue that transcends mere diplomatic relations and speaks to global security. The speakers propose that Australia has a unique opportunity to step up as a cooperative force in international relations, promoting stability and mutual respect in an increasingly fragmented world.
Are we living through a key turning point in world history? How do we make sense of this present moment, and what's on the horizon?Trump's trade wars, long-held alliances dismantled, the deadly conflicts in Gaza and Ukraine, the rise and rise of AI, the tech oligarch takeover, China's military build-up, NATO's demise, and much more. It's a confusing time. Four seasoned analysts and journalists with their finger on the pulse join Big Ideas host Natasha Mitchell to share their prognoses.
John LyonsWalkley award winning foreign correspondentABC Editor, AmericasABC Washington bureau chief
Greg SheridanForeign editor, The AustralianJournalist and author, Christians, the urgent case for Jesus in our world (2021)
Emma ShortisDirector, The Australia Institute's International and Security Affairs program. Author, Our Exceptional Friend: Australia's Fatal Alliance with the United States (2021), After America: Australia and the New World Order (2025)
Josh TaylorAward-winning journalist specialising in technology and politicsThe Guardian
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