Francis Fukuyama on Global Chaos (and Why You Don't Need to Despair About It)
Jul 6, 2024
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Political scientist Francis Fukuyama talks with Yascha Mounk about the French far-right's success, Biden's debate woes, and global democracy challenges. They delve into the Ukraine-Russia conflict, potential outcomes for Joe Biden, and the state of democracy worldwide.
The discussion covers the rise of far-right politics in France, Biden's debate performance, and challenges to democracy worldwide.
Insights on the French legislative elections, Ukraine-Russia conflict, and US debate aftermath emphasize political uncertainties and democracy's state.
Critical evaluation of Biden's debate performance, party strategies, and concerns over Trump's potential impacts on democracy are thoroughly examined.
Deep dives
Insights on the Importance of Liberal Arts Education for Adults
The proliferation of programs for the rigorous study of the humanities outside higher education settings is highlighted, emphasizing adults' continued interest in literature and philosophy. The podcast discusses new programs like the Matthew Struthers Center for the Examined Life, detailing their significance in promoting serious engagement with the humanities amid superficial public discourse.
Challenges of Democratic Elections in France, Ukraine, and the US
The podcast delves into the French legislative elections, Ukraine's conflict with Russia, and the aftermath of the US presidential debate. Insights are shared on the potential outcomes and uncertainties in these significant political landscapes, reflecting on the implications for democracy and political stability.
Critical Analysis of Joe Biden's Candidacy and Democratic Party Strategy
A candid evaluation of Joe Biden's debate performance and the Democratic Party's response to his cognitive decline is presented. The debate on potential strategies for the Democratic Party, including considerations of alternate candidates like Kamala Harris and the implications of a contested convention, is thoroughly discussed.
Implications of Trump's Potential Reelection on American Democracy
The discussion shifts towards the potential impacts of a second term for Donald Trump on American institutions and democracy. Concerns are raised regarding Trump's intentions to influence key government positions and the Supreme Court's recent rulings, indicating potential threats to democratic norms and political stability.
Global Perspectives on Democracy and Challenges to Liberalism
A broader reflection on the state of global democracy and liberalism is provided. The resilience and weaknesses of democratic systems worldwide are examined, highlighting the evolving challenges to liberalism and the pivotal role of the United States in shaping international democratic values and norms.
Yascha Mounk and Francis Fukuyama discuss the state of democracy around the world.
Francis Fukuyama is a political scientist, author, and the Olivier Nomellini Senior Fellow at the Freeman Spogli Institute for International Studies at Stanford University. Fukuyama’s notable works include The End of History and the Last Man and The Origins of Political Order. His latest book is Liberalism and Its Discontents.
In this week’s conversation, Yascha Mounk and Francis Fukuyama discuss the triumph of the French far-right in the country’s first round of legislative elections; President Biden’s disastrous debate performance and what it may portend for the 2024 election; and the state of democracy from India to Ukraine.